United announce $1 billion redevelopment project at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport

2011-05-24 02:50:09 GMT+7 (ICT)

HOUSTON, TEXAS (BNO NEWS) -- United Continental Holdings and the Houston Airport System on Monday announced a $1 billion$1 billion redevelopment project at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport.

The construction on the first phase of the three-phase project will begin at the end of the year. The initial work will consist in a new Terminal B south concourse dedicated to domestic regional jet operations.

In addition, United announced that it extended the lease on Terminal C at Bush Intercontinental Airport to 2027. The project was designed after determining that the 1969 Terminal B reached its maximum capacity.

The initial south concourse project will replace the existing south side flight stations with a 225,000 square foot facility to accommodate United's fleet of regional aircraft. It will cost $161 million and will provide improved and expanded gate lounge space, concessions and restroom facilities.

The three-phase project at the Terminal B, one of the airport's two original terminals, is intended to allow both operational flexibility and a better customer experience. The new terminal's design will include energy-efficient techniques using Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria.

"As the largest hub for the largest airline in the world, Bush Intercontinental is positioned to serve the world as United builds its global network," said Houston Mayor Annise Parker. "Our airport serves as one of the most important economic engines in Houston and we are committed to expanding the portal to our global business connections."

The new Terminal B will also include a wide connecting bridge to a modern central passenger lounge with ample concession choices and restroom facilities, as well as a high-efficiency boarding process that will allow for up to 30 flights to depart through three main boarding zones.

"This project and the extension of our Terminal C lease to 2027 clearly demonstrate United's commitment to Houston and will help Houston maintain its status as an international city," said Jeff Smisek, United's president and CEO.

The future three-phase program will include the redevelopment of the central Terminal B lobby and baggage claim areas; a new international-capable north concourse for mainline and regional jet flights; a Federal Inspections Services (FIS) facility; and other infrastructure improvements.

The construction of the entire redevelopment project is planned over the next 7 to 10 years, with phase one expected to be completed in late 2013. Houston Airport System is partnering with United on the project.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2011-05-24

This is all as a result of United's merger with Continental.

I'd start with a name change

I'd start with a name change

Secondly I would retire off some of the old hags who are currently cabin crew

and replace them with something closer to the Virgin Atlantic style

Edited May 25, 201115 yr by midas

I'd start with a name change

BJ Billy has a nice ring to it; don't you think?

Edited May 25, 201115 yr by powderpuff

I'd start with a name change

BJ Billy has a nice ring to it; don't you think?

I'm going with; "the international airport for psychopathic and moronic ex-presidents willing to subvert the constitution they swore to uphold and murder the innocent citizens of their country while covering it up under the guise of national security using the powers of executive order" This way we won't have to change names every time we change presidents. Oh....ask me how I really feel.