George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Smoking Area, Section or Lounge
The George Bush Intercontinental Airport offers a smoking-free policy to ensure a comfortable and safe environment. According to the United States smoking policy, the use of traditional cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and e-cigarettes/vaping devices is prohibited inside the terminals, restrooms, lounges, and other public areas. However, there are designated IAH smoking areas for those who want to smoke while waiting for their flights. These areas are situated after the security check and clearly marked with signage.
Where is the Smoking Area in the IAH Airport Located?
The designated smoking areas are located 25 feet away from the terminal building to maintain a clean and healthy atmosphere for all passengers.
| Terminal | Level | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal A | Level 1, North | Near Door A-113 (Private Cars pick-up) |
| Terminal A | Level 2, East | Both north and south of the main entrance |
| Terminal B | Level 1, South | Near taxi pick-up |
| Terminal B | Level 2, East | Both north and south of the main entrance |
| Terminal C | Level 1, South | Door C-105 near shuttles and buses |
| Terminal C | Level 2, East | Both north and south of the main entrance |
| Terminal D | Level 1, Ticketing Area | West and east of the main entrance |
| Terminal E | Level 1, Northwest | Near Hotel Shuttles Pick-Up (Door E-101) |
Polices for the Houston Airport Smoking Section
IAH airport maintains a smoking-free policy under city ordinance, which means smoking is not allowed inside any terminal, whether in restrooms, gate areas, restaurants, bars, lounges, or corridors.
- All the outdoor smoking areas must be located at least 25 feet apart from terminal exit doors.
- Vaping or the use of e-cigarettes is treated the same as smoking. These are not allowed indoors.
- Violating the IAH airport smoking policy can lead to penalties from $50.00 up to $500.00. While exact amounts may vary, enforcement aligns with local city ordinances.
Passengers on connecting flights will need to exit the secure side of the terminal. After smoking, they need to go back through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint to reach their connecting gates.
Does the IAH Airport Have a Smoking Lounge?
Currently, there are no Houston Airport smoking lounges inside any terminal. However, passengers can smoke in designated outdoor areas.
IAH maintains a smoke-free indoor environment. However, there are some designated Houston Airport smoking sections outside each terminal for those who need them. Connecting passengers must consider the time needed to leave and re-enter through security.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Smoking is prohibited in all interior areas of IAH, including restrooms, lounges, gates, and corridors.
Yes, each terminal has outdoor zones at least 25 feet from exits.
Yes. Since smoking areas are outside the secure zone, exiting and re-entering requires passing through TSA screening again.
Yes, but they must leave the secure area to smoke and re-clear security before boarding their next flight.
The use of e-cigarettes is treated the same as smoking and is only permitted in designated outdoor zones.
Some retail locations may sell tobacco products, but smoking must only occur in approved outdoor areas.