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Is a 45 min layover in Houston long enough?

IAH · George Bush Intcntl Houston · Houston, United States
It Depends

A 45 minutes layover at IAH (Houston) is tight — it may or may not be enough.

This matches IAH's domestic-domestic MCT, feasible if both flights are in Terminals A-C and no issues arise.
Quick Stats
Concourses
5
Max Transit
30m
Avg. Security
20m
Primary Hub
United Airlines
Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45min
tight
Domestic → International
60min
✗
International → Domestic
90min
✗
International → International
90min
✗
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Tips for 45 min Connections
If arriving internationally, budget extra time for the Customs and Border Protection line at the D/E Federal Inspection Station before you can even head to your next gate.
Terminals A, B, and C are all linked by the free Terminal Link train, so domestic-to-domestic connections are usually straightforward if you allow for train transit and walking.
United's hub operations mean gate changes are common at peak hours, so check the app frequently rather than relying on your original gate assignment.
Terminal E can feel like a long walk from the train station to the gates, so add a buffer if your connection lands there.
TSA PreCheck lines are typically much shorter and can save 15-20 minutes versus standard security during peak banks.
Busyness — Connection Risk
12a6a12p6p12a
Low risk
Moderate
High risk
Tight connections are safer outside peak hours. Morning rush (6–9a), midday (11a–2p), and evening (4–8p) are highest risk.
Getting Between Concourses
The Terminal Link automated train connects Terminals A, B, C and the D/E international complex airside, with rides typically taking 5-10 minutes between stops plus walking and waiting time. International arrivals must first pass through Customs and Border Protection in the D/E Federal Inspection Station before any connecting travel, and there is no sterile international-to-international transit corridor, so U.S.-bound international connections always require a full recheck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH)?

This matches IAH's domestic-domestic MCT, feasible if both flights are in Terminals A-C and no issues arise.

What is the minimum connection time at IAH?

Minimum connection times at George Bush Intcntl Houston: Domestic-to-Domestic is 45 minutes, International-to-International is 90 minutes. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell.

Can I make a 45 minutes connection at IAH on an international flight?

45 minutes is below the 90-minute international MCT at George Bush Intcntl Houston. You may need to rush and could miss your connection. The Terminal Link automated train connects Terminals A, B, C and the D/E international complex airside, with rides typically taking 5-10 minutes between stops plus walking and waiting time. International arrivals must first pass through Customs and Border Protection in the D/E Federal Inspection Station before any connecting travel, and there is no sterile international-to-international transit corridor, so U.S.-bound international connections always require a full recheck.

How much time do I need for a layover at IAH?

We recommend at least 1 hour for a comfortable connection at George Bush Intcntl Houston. This gives you enough buffer for security (typically 20 minutes) and transit between terminals (up to 30 minutes).

What happens if I miss my connection at IAH?

United passengers who miss a connection at IAH are typically automatically rebooked and notified via the app or airport kiosks; head to a United Customer Service desk near your arrival gate or in Terminal C/E if you need manual assistance.

Other Layover Durations at IAH
25 min30 min35 min40 min50 min55 min1 hr1¼ hr1½ hr1¾ hr2 hr2½ hr3 hr4 hr
45 min Layovers at Other Airports
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