Construction continues to move forward on the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

On Jan. 13 contractor Hensel-Phelps began ceiling work at the Terminal E meeter/greeter area and in a portion of the CBP exit area where recheck is located.

“We want to strongly emphasize that the work will be practically ‘invisible’ to the traveling public,” said Foti Kallergis, Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Houston Airport System.

“The work will be done from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. week days which allows for a very minimal impact to our customers and the general public,” he said.  “Work areas will be cordoned off and properly marked, as safety is always paramount for Houston Airports.”

He anticipates 15-17 workers will work in the ceiling each night for the duration of the project, which is expected to be about 30 days before the preparation and issuance of a written report.

“It is necessary to replace portions of the existing ceiling so that we can scan existing MEP/IT systems,” Kallergis said. “The temporary ceiling will allow us to continue to access and review systems as we design and construct United Airlines’ temporary baggage handling system reroute under a separate package within the construction of the International Terminal Complex (ITC).”

The ITC is a major component of the $1.3 billion ITRP underway at IAH. The ITRP will support IAH international flight operations for United Airlines and more than a dozen foreign flag carriers. Additional international gates will accommodate continued international airline growth and larger widebody aircraft.

The ITRP includes refurbishing the existing Mickey Leland International Terminal (MLIT) and demolition of the Terminal D/E parking garage to create an international terminal processor between Terminals D and E, where all the international ticketing counters, security checkpoint lanes and baggage claims will be consolidated. The completed ITRP will include two concourses — one each in the current terminals — where passengers will board their planes, dine or use facilities such as airport lounges.