The expansion and reconstruction of Terminal 1 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City is well underway, with the first phase expected to be completed within the next year. This is just one part of a larger $19-billion project by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to transform the airport into a world-class gateway.
The new Terminal 1 will be the largest at JFK and is being built on the site of the current Terminal 1 and former Terminals 2 and 3. The existing terminal will be demolished once the new one is operational. The project is being overseen by New Terminal One, a private company, and is being constructed by a design-build team led by AECOM Tishman and Gensler, a global design and architecture firm.
The terminal will have 23 gates and over 300,000 square feet of retail, dining, and lounge space enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows. It will also feature a solar microgrid on the roof to ensure operations can continue in the event of power disruptions. The microgrid, which will be installed by partner AlphaStruxure, will also help reduce carbon emissions.
The scale of the new terminal is impressive, with a third-floor ticket hall that will overlook the aircraft ramp and planes beyond. The terminal’s design was inspired by the wings of a butterfly, giving it a grand and airy feel. Travelers will be able to see through the terminal to the aircraft apron from the drop-off area.
Inside the terminal, there will be six lounges, as well as artwork and concessions throughout. A 4,200-square-foot Plaza Premium lounge will be available in the pre-security area, while a larger 9,300-square-foot Plaza Premium First lounge will be located beyond the security checkpoint. Qatar Airways will also have a 15,000-square-foot lounge in the terminal, providing direct access to the boarding gate.
The new terminal is not only focused on providing a world-class experience for passengers, but it also aims to be environmentally friendly. In June, the port authority issued $2. 5 billion in green bonds, showing investor confidence in the project. Additionally, the terminal has partnerships with several leading airlines, including Air France, KLM, Etihad, and Qatar Airways.
According to Jennifer Aument, CEO of New Terminal One, the project is progressing on schedule, with construction currently focused on the interior of the building. The terminal is set to open its doors to the public in 2026 and will offer unique shopping and dining experiences from top brands.
The completion of Terminal 1 will bring JFK Airport one step closer to becoming a top international gateway, with its two new terminals, two expanded terminals, new ground transportation center, and simplified roadway network. This ambitious project is expected to create over 10,000 jobs, including 6,000 union construction jobs, and will provide a world-class experience for both airlines and passengers.