Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is the largest airport in Houston and a major hub for United Airlines. IAH is smoke-free indoors by city ordinance, with designated outdoor smoking areas outside each terminal. This guide explains where to find them.
Smoking Policy at Houston IAH
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is a smoke-free facility. Smoking and e-cigarette use are prohibited in all terminals, including restrooms, lounges, gates, and corridors. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor zones at least 25 feet from exit doors.
Designated Outdoor Smoking Locations
Each terminal at IAH has designated outdoor smoking areas on Levels 1 and 2:
Terminal A
Level 1, north side – Door A-113, near Private Cars Pick-Up
Level 2, east side – Both north and south of the entrance
Terminal B
Level 1, south side – Near Taxis Pick-Up
Level 2, east side – Both north and south of the entrance
Terminal C (United Hub)
Level 1, south side – Door C-105, near Shuttles and Buses Pick-Up
Level 2, east side – Both north and south of the entrance
Tip: Terminal C’s departures level has benches near the smoking area.
Terminal D (International)
- Level 1 (Ticketing) – West and east of the entrance
Terminal E
- Near Door E101 – Designated smoking zone
Important: No Post-Security Smoking
There are no smoking areas inside the secure area at IAH. To smoke, you must:
Exit the terminal to the outdoor smoking zones
Go through TSA security screening again to re-enter
International travelers on connecting flights can use the smoking areas but must leave the secure area and re-clear security before their next flight.
Tips for Smokers at Houston IAH
Smoke before security – Plan to smoke before entering the secure area
Terminal C has benches – The departures level smoking area has seating
25-foot rule – Stay at least 25 feet from all exit doors
Allow extra time – Re-clearing security can take 15-30+ minutes during peak hours
International connections – You can smoke but will need to re-clear security and possibly customs