Security

The federal government shutdown is affecting TSA staffing and resources nationwide. Some security lanes are operating with fewer officers than usual, which can result in longer screening times—especially during peak travel periods.

Additionally, passenger volume at IAH varies by day of the week and time of day. For example, Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically see lower passenger volumes, which may result in shorter security wait times.

The federal government shutdown is affecting TSA staffing and resources nationwide. Some security lanes are operating with fewer officers than usual, which can result in longer screening times—especially during peak travel periods.

Additionally, passenger volume at IAH varies by day of the week and time of day. For example, Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically see lower passenger volumes, which may result in shorter security wait times.

As a result of the federal government shutdown, only TSA checkpoints at Terminals A and E are open for passenger screening.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are available at both terminals.

Yes. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR remain open at both Terminal A and Terminal E.

United Airlines passengers should check luggage at Terminal C and then proceed to Terminal E for security screening by walking or taking the Subway.

The walk between Terminals C and E is about six minutes. Once cleared by TSA, passengers can use the Skyway to access all terminals.

United does not operate a ticketing counter at Terminal A.

Passengers checking in at Terminal D should proceed through the tunnel to Terminal E for TSA

Passengers not checking bags can check in at Terminals A or E and proceed through security. Follow estimated TSA wait times at fly2houston.com/iah/security before arriving.

Yes. Several restaurants, coffee shops and convenience stores open early to serve travelers catching morning flights.

At Terminal A, passengers will find Texas Monthly News (open 24 hours), Starbucks, Jack in the Box, Chick-fil-A, and Great American Bagel, all of which open by 4 a.m.

At Terminal D, Houston Supply News is open 24 hours a day, with Einstein Bros. Bagels opening at 4:30 a.m.

At Terminal E, Chick-fil-A and Einstein Bros. Bagels open at 5 a.m. and are located just after the TSA Checkpoint.

Additionally, 24/7 offerings (self-service markets and vending options) are available in Terminals A, C, D and E.

The Subway connects all five terminals at IAH and is accessible pre-security. After screening, passengers can use the Skyway to reach their specific gate post-security.

Houston Airports is working closely with TSA leadership and other federal partners to monitor checkpoint capacity in real-time, adjust passenger flow, and provide on-site customer service support.

We’re also supporting our federal partners through donation drives and airport employees who have job functions outside of IAH are volunteering to assist passengers in the terminals.

Houston Airports encourages travelers to stay informed through Fly2Houston.com and by following Bush Airport on social media for the latest updates.

We thank our passengers for their patience, flexibility and Houston-friendly spirit as federal employees continue to navigate the effects of the government shutdown.

ADVANCED IMAGING TECHNOLOGY Houston was selected as one of the first airports to introduce a new technology known as “Advanced Imaging Technology” (AIT). A scan of your image allows TSA staff to better detect threats such as weapons, explosives, or other objects, which may be concealed under layers of clothing.

Passengers undergoing screening will have the opportunity to decline AIT screening in favor of physical screening. However, some passengers will be required to undergo AIT screening in accordance with TSA regulations.

TSA ENHANCED PAT-DOWNS The enhanced pat-down may be performed by TSA agents on a random basis or when someone prefers to have a “pat-down,” rather than being scanned in the AIT or full body scanner. When a TSA agent performs this procedure, they will explain in advance the steps they will take. The traveling public always has the option to ask for a private screening should a person not want to have this measure done in a public place.

TSA offers a “modified pat-down” for children 12-years-old and under who require the additional screening. For more information, go to www.TSA.gov

Guests are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

For travel tips and a complete list of items prohibited from carry-on or checked baggage, visit www.TSATravelTips.us or call the Contact Center toll-free at 1-866-289-9673.

CLEAR is the fastest and most predictable way to get through airport security. Being a CLEAR member means you can breeze right past the long lines and go straight to screening.

Where and when CLEAR can be found at IAH:

Terminal A North: Daily: 4:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Terminal C: Sun-Fri: 4:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Sat: 4:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m.

Terminal E: Post-security enrollment center is open daily: 4:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Click here to learn more about CLEAR and how to sign up.

TSA Pre✓ is an expedited security screening program connecting travelers departing from the United States with smarter security and a better air travel experience.

Enrollment is open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who apply online at www.TSA.gov/tsa-precheck and then go for in-person screening at a TSA Pre✓ Enrollment Center. Once approved, travelers will receive a Known Traveler Number and will have the opportunity to utilize TSA Pre✓ lanes at security checkpoints.

Enrollment Center Location and Hours

Terminal A North, 3:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Pre✓™ Hours, 4:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Terminal A South, 3:30 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Terminal B, Closed

Terminal C North, 4:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Pre✓™ Hours, 4:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Terminal C South, 4:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Terminal D, 4:00 a.m. - 12:30 a.m. Pre✓™ Hours, 5:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Terminal E, 4:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. Pre✓™ Hours, 4:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Federal Inspection Services (FIS) 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Schedule an appointment at https://www.identogo.com/services/tsa-programs.