Houston Council Delays United’s $2.6B Terminal B Renovation Plan
In a recent setback for United Airlines, the Houston City Council has put a temporary hold on the airline’s ambitious plan to renovate Terminal B at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The $2.6 billion project, aimed at tripling the airline’s presence at the airport, includes additional aircraft, expanded retail space, and overall enhancements.
The Council’s decision comes as they withheld a $150 million allocation from taxpayer funds, citing concerns about the lack of clarity on United’s financing strategy and project details. City Controller Chris Brown emphasized the need for transparency before committing public funds to the project.
Despite unveiling detailed plans in a public meeting on May 31, featuring renderings of the proposed renovation, United faces uncertainties about the project’s future. The airline considers Houston a crucial hub in its network, but without the approved funding, the expansion remains in limbo.
United had previously committed $39 million to upgrade its training facility in Houston earlier this year. Mayor Sylvester Turner acknowledged United’s importance to the city but emphasized the need for transparency in public funding allocation.
If the expansion receives approval, the completion date is set for mid-2026. United, under the leadership of CEO Scott Kirby, is navigating challenges and seeking to establish itself amid competition, recently addressing concerns about low-cost carriers in the market.
