George Bush Intercontinental Airport opens first integrated coordination centre to strengthen airport safety, emergency response and passenger communications

New Integrated Coordination Center at IAH - Bush Airport - July 29, 2025

Houston Airports has opened its first Integrated Coordination Centre (ICC), a state-of-the-art hub that centralises operations, enhances public safety and ensures unified, transparent communication during emergencies.

Based at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the ICC brings together key departments and partners, including the Airport Operations Coordination Centre, TSA Security Operations Centre, Houston Police Department, gate control, maintenance dispatch and terminal operations, all within one facility for the first time.

“This is about keeping Houston safe, prepared, and connected,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “Houston works best when we’re all working together. By housing all law enforcement and aviation partners under one roof, we enhance our ability to respond quickly to any situation at Bush Airport and communicate effectively with the public. It’s exactly the kind of collaboration and transparency Houstonians expect from their city.”

Developed through collaboration and drawing on best practice from airports across the United States, the ICC has been adapted to Houston’s specific needs. It monitors landside, airside and terminal operations 24 hours a day and can immediately shift into emergency command mode during severe weather, major events or security incidents.

“Our mission is simple: to protect our passengers and our community,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “This facility gives us the tools, the partnerships and the real-time information we need to make that happen every hour of every day.”

The ICC will be vital during large-scale events such as the World Cup in 2026. “With the ICC, we can coordinate traffic, security and passenger movement in a way that’s seamless for the public. This is a major step forward in safety, efficiency and customer service,” Szczesniak added.

The centre also strengthens transparency by serving as a single point for public messaging during emergencies, ensuring information is accurate, consistent and shared quickly with passengers, staff and the media.

SIGN ME UP