American Airlines and British Airways are ready to welcome customers to the newly renovated Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. Starting December 1, 2022, customers will enjoy an enhanced travel experience with seamless travel connections as the two airlines share operations as part of a $400 million investment. This marks the completion of the first phase of the airport’s redevelopment by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
To celebrate British Airways’ move from Terminal 7 to Terminal 8; New York Governor Kathy Hochul, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, American Airlines and British Airways today announced the opening of a new expanded Terminal 8, marking the completion of the first phase of the historic JFK Vision plan that is transforming the international landscape. airport into a world-class global hub.
Governor Hochul said: “The completion of Terminal 8 is the latest milestone in our historic efforts to build an all-new JFK worthy of New York.”
“I congratulate American Airlines, British Airways and the Port Authority on the first of many milestones to come. We will continue our close partnerships as we transform JFK into a magnificent global gateway that will help keep New York at the center of the world stage..”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said: “We are delighted to welcome our long-standing joint business partner, British Airways, as they join American and other oneworld partners at Terminal 8. As part of our investment to transform JFK into a leading global airport, we are delighted to offer customers an extended terminal. space, new check-in areas and elegant lounges.”
British Airways Chairman and CEO Sean Doyle said: “We announced our joint investment in early 2019, so it’s an honor to reach this significant milestone with our business partner, American Airlines. From December 1, our customers and colleagues will be able to enjoy all the benefits that Terminal 8 has to offer.”
Port Authority Chief Executive Rick Cotton said: “This inspired expansion of Terminal 8, promoting superb on-time service between JFK and London, is an example of what’s to come at JFK, where our vision for a world-class, 21st century airport is now unfolding from one end of the airport to others. Thanks to investment by American Airlines and British Airways, Terminal 8 – with five new wide-body gates – offers an enhanced passenger experience and expanded capacity for transatlantic travel to and from JFK. This investment by our private partners in Terminal 8 is a vote of confidence in the future of the airport and the JFK region.“
Operational improvements to Terminal 8 include five new wide-body gates, four new wide-body parking positions and an expanded and improved baggage handling system that will together support additional transatlantic flights. The terminal was also expanded with approximately 130,000 square meters of additional and renovated space. Premium customers traveling with both airlines will be able to enjoy a premium travel experience. Upon arrival at JFK, premium customers will be greeted in the new co-branded premium check-in area, which offers personalized, concierge-style service. Carefully designed architectural elements will also define an exclusive check-in space for eligible customers.
Once through security, three distinctive personalized lounges combining the best of both brands will offer eligible customers a refined and welcoming pre-flight experience, depending on travel cabin and loyalty program status. The two brand new lounges – Chelsea and Soho – have been designed with original state-of-the-art finishes – evoking a unique sense of space while elevating the experience and service offered to each guest. Gensler, the world’s leading architecture and design firm, was commissioned to design the premium check-in area and lounges, and Sodexo Magic will provide an outstanding food and beverage offering to lounge customers.
The expansion of Terminal 8 is a critical component of JFK’s vision plan, which transforms the airport into what will be one of the world’s best international gateways, with a 21st century customer experience and enhanced connectivity for travelers. British Airways’ move will bring the renowned carrier closer to its airline partners as Terminal 8 becomes home to five oneworld® Alliance carriers. Iberia plans to move into Terminal 8 on December 1, and Japan Airlines expects to move operations to Terminal 8 in May 2023.
New York, November 29, 2022