Airlines

United Airlines, to Invest more than $2B in Terminal B Transformation

United Airlines and the Houston Airport System announced the Terminal B Transformation Programme, a landmark investment in United’s hub at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

This ambitious project aims to redefine air travel and meet the needs of an estimated 36 million passengers in the future. The programme includes the construction of 40 new domestic and international gates, ensuring that travelers have a cutting-edge experience.

Travellers will discover new conveniences and amenities throughout their airport experience. The Terminal B transformation includes expanding curbside and roadway capacity, as well as expanding the ticketing lobby and providing passengers with convenience through dynamic signage, intuitive wayfinding systems, and a ground-level check-in area. The third floor will most likely house a streamlined security processing area.

Terminal B South Concourse converting 30 gates

The Terminal B South Concourse project entails converting 30 gates, which currently house smaller, 50-seat regional jets, into larger, two-class regional jets. All flights will be boarded via jet bridge, as opposed to the current terminal.

The Terminal B Transformation Programme is expected to cost more than $1.9 billion, according to United Airlines, and $624 million is expected to be provided by the City of Houston for enabling projects. The Houston City Council authorized and approved a Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Houston and United Airlines on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The City of Houston plans to present requests for the appropriation of funds in multiple tranches over the project’s duration to the City Council for approval.

Construction and design

The IAH Terminal B Transformation Program, spearheaded by the seasoned Program Management team at AvAirPros and STV, comprises three pivotal components:

The Terminal B arrival and departure hall is designed by Page, a full-service design, architecture and engineering firm based in Houston; and Grimshaw Architects, a London-based architectural firm and will be constructed by Clark Construction.
The Terminal B Concourses were designed by PGAL, a Houston-based international design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and engineering, and to be built by Manhattan Construction, a Houston-based company.
The Baggage Handling System, will be designed by Siemens’, employing their expertise in the design and construction of these highly technical systems.

Airlines

A Costly Mistake: Passenger Pays for Fuel After Disruptive Flight

A Western Australian man has learned a costly lesson after his unruly behavior on a flight resulted in the aircraft having to turn back. The passenger was ordered to pay over $5,000 in fuel costs, along with a significant fine, for causing the plane to divert.

The incident occurred in September 2023 when the man, who was not publicly named, became disruptive on a flight from Perth to Sydney. Due to his behavior, the pilot was forced to turn the plane around and return to Perth, which required dumping fuel to land safely.

The passenger pleaded guilty to charges of disorderly behavior and non-compliance with safety instructions. As a result, he was ordered to pay $8,630 to the airline to cover the cost of the wasted fuel and was also fined $6,055. This combined penalty of over $11,000 is a stark reminder of the severe consequences of disruptive behavior on flights.

While this is not a typical punishment, other cases of in-flight misconduct have resulted in hefty fines. One passenger in the United States was fined over $40,000 for a series of offenses, including bringing their own alcohol on board, being intoxicated, attempting to smoke marijuana, and sexually assaulting a flight attendant.

The Australian Federal Police emphasized that disruptive behavior on flights will not be tolerated. They warned that individuals who cause disturbances can face significant financial penalties and legal consequences. The case of the Western Australian passenger serves as a clear message that obeying airline staff and adhering to safety regulations is essential for a smooth and safe flight.