George Bush Intercontinental Airport
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is Houston's primary commercial gateway, located 23 miles north of downtown Houston. IAH offers five runways with the longest at 12,001 feet, accommodating all heavy jets, ultra-long-range aircraft, and VIP-configured airliners. As a major international port of entry with extensive U.S. Customs facilities, IAH is particularly valuable for private jet arrivals from Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. Dedicated FBO facilities from Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation, and Wilson Air Center provide private terminals and comprehensive VIP services. Estimated charter rates to Houston via IAH: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets from $5,500 per hour, heavy jets from $8,500 per hour.
Transworld Jets Insider Tip
For most Houston destinations, our brokers recommend William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) as it's significantly closer to downtown, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria. IAH is primarily useful for international arrivals requiring its extensive customs facilities or for travelers heading to The Woodlands and northern suburbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Houston IAH have customs?
Yes. George Bush Intercontinental is a major international port of entry with extensive U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities, ideal for private jet arrivals from Latin America, Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
How far is IAH from downtown Houston?
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is approximately 23 miles north of downtown Houston, typically a 30 to 45 minute drive depending on traffic. Hobby Airport (HOU) is closer at 7 miles from downtown.
Why choose IAH over Hobby for private jets?
IAH is preferred for international arrivals needing customs, for travelers heading to The Woodlands and northern suburbs, or when ultra-long-range aircraft require longer runways. For most downtown and medical center destinations, Hobby is faster.
Aircraft Compatible with George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Based on the longest runway (12,001 ft), the following aircraft categories can operate here.
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Lighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15L/33R | 12,001 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 09/27 | 10,000 ft | 150 ft | Asp | ✓ Yes |
| 15R/33L | 10,000 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 08R/26L | 9,402 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 08L/26R | 9,000 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
Nearby Alternative Airports
More Airports in Texas
Abilene Regional Airport
ABI — Abilene
Dyess Air Force Base
DYS — Abilene
Alice International Airport
ALI — Alice
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport
AMA — Amarillo
Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport
LJN — Angleton
Austin Bergstrom International Airport
AUS — Austin
Jack Brooks Regional Airport
BPT — Beaumont/Port Arthur
Curtis Field
BBD — Brady
Charter a Jet from Houston
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- IATA Code
- IAH
- ICAO Code
- KIAH
- Elevation
- 97 ft
- Runways
- 5
- Longest Runway
- 12,001 ft
- Location
- Houston, Texas