Alstom Secures €380 Million Contract to Modernize Houston Intercontinental Airport’s Skyway
Alstom has been awarded a €380 million (approximately $437 million) contract by George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, to modernize the Skyway automated people mover (APM) system and provide operations and maintenance services for the next 15 years. The announcement was made on March 24, 2026, by the global leader in smart and sustainable mobility.
Skyway Upgrade Details
The project encompasses a complete overhaul of the existing Skyway system, including:
- Recent Fleet: Replacement of the current vehicles with 16 new Innovia APM R vehicles.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Modernization of station infrastructure, including station doors across all terminals.
- Technology Upgrade: Implementation of upgraded Automatic Train Control and communications systems, alongside a new Operations Control Center.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Continued operations and maintenance of the system for a period of 15 years, supported by a dedicated team of 48 personnel.
Addressing Airport Expansion and Passenger Demand
The modernization project is designed to enhance capacity and improve the passenger experience at IAH, which handled over 48 million passengers in the past year [Global Railway Review]. The upgrade will support the airport’s ongoing expansion program and ensure reliable inter-terminal transport as passenger numbers continue to grow.
Alstom’s Role and Expertise
Alstom has been operating and maintaining the Skyway APM at IAH for two decades, utilizing the original Innovia APM 100 vehicles [Alstom]. This new contract extends the partnership between Alstom and Houston Airport to over 25 years. The company’s Urbalis automatic train control system will be installed to improve safety and capacity and digital monitoring and communication upgrades will enhance operational reliability [Global Railway Review].
Minimizing Disruption During Modernization
To minimize disruption during the upgrade works, interim bus services will be provided when necessary to transport passengers between terminals [Global Railway Review].
“Modernizing Houston’s Skyway system is essential to meeting the needs of one of the fastest‑growing airports in the United States,” stated Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas [Global Railway Review].
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