The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ) joined state and local political leaders, American Airlines and British Airways in celebrating the formal opening of a newly expanded Terminal 8 at John Kennedy International Airport (JFK), marking completion of the first phase of the historic JFK Vision Plan that is transforming the international airport into a world-class global hub.
The $400 million, privately financed expansion and modernization will allow British Airways to move from its long-time home in Terminal 7 and co-locate with American Airlines in Terminal 8. The 50-year-old Terminal 7 will be demolished to clear space for a new Terminal 6 that will begin construction early next year.
Terminal 8 also features five new widebody gates, four new widebody parking positions, and an expanded and upgraded baggage handling system that will together support additional transatlantic flights.
The terminal has been expanded with approximately 130,000 square feet of additional and refurbished space, with as host a new amenities co-branded premium check-in area with personalized, concierge-style service. Terminal 8 also features three distinctive lounges; Chelsea, Soho and Greenwich, combine the best of both brands and provide a refined, welcoming pre-flight experience for eligible customers based on cabin of travel and loyalty program status.
Terminal 8 will also be undergoing a major concessions upgrade across the terminal over the next 18 months, including locally-inspired food and beverage options.
“Thanks to the investment made by American Airlines and British Airways, Terminal 8 – with five new wide body gates – offers an improved passenger experience and expanded capacity for transatlantic travel to and from JFK, said Rick Cotton, PANYNJ executive director. “This investment by our private partners at Terminal 8 is a vote of confidence in the future of the airport and of the JFK region.”
