Houston Airports is celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Disney-built IAH Subway from August 17–21, 2026, with its IAH Subway Week. The celebration includes historical displays, airport announcements, commemorative trading cards and digital storytelling. The Subway is free and open to the public because it operates outside security.  You do not need a plane ticket to ride it. 

Where Does the IAH Subway Go? 

The underground Subway operates outside security (pre-security). It connects: 

• Terminal A
• Terminal B
• Terminal C
• Terminal D/E
• Houston Airport Marriott

A trip between Subway stations takes approximately three minutes, while the complete two-mile loop takes about 19 minutes. The Houston Airport Marriott is located between Terminals B and C and is one of the Subway stops. 

Can Anyone Ride the IAH Subway?

Yes. The IAH Subway is open to the public and does not require a boarding pass or plane ticket. Since it operates outside security, passengers can use it even if they are not flying that day. The service is also free, making it a convenient way to travel between airport terminals. 

The IAH Subway operates daily during the following hours:

• Opening time: 3:15 a.m.
• Closing time: 12:15 a.m.
• Operating days: Every day
• Access: Open to the public
• Cost: Free

The Subway remains closed between 12:15 a.m. and 3:15 a.m. each day. 

IAH Subway vs. Skyway

The IAH Subway and Skyway both connect the terminals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, but they serve passengers at different stages of their journey. 

IAH Subway: The Subway runs underground and is available outside security. It is free to use and travels at speeds of up to 15 mph. Trains arrive about every three minutes, making it a convenient option for passengers who need to move between terminals before going through TSA. 

IAH Skyway: The Skyway operates above ground and is located inside security. It is also free and departs approximately every two minutes, making it particularly useful for passengers who have already cleared TSA and need to reach another terminal. 

45 years after opening, the Disney-designed IAH Subway is still moving millions of passengers beneath Houston’s airport. And during IAH Subway Week, visitors don’t even need a plane ticket to experience this unusual piece of Disney transportation history.

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