John F. Kennedy International Airport is a major hub for travelers from all over the world, with 63. 3 million passengers passing through in 2024 alone. In order to accommodate the large flow of people, the airport has been undergoing a significant expansion project, with a new terminal being built known as Terminal 1. This new addition, which has been under construction since 2022, has a cost of $9. 5 billion and is expected to be about the same size as the two most recent terminals added to LaGuardia Airport combined.

Excitingly, the wait for Terminal 1’s opening is almost over. The terminal is set to open in phases, with the first 14 gates opening in mid-2026. It is estimated that by 2030, Terminal 1 will have a total of 23 gates and approximately 300,000 square feet dedicated to retail, dining, and lounge space. The completed terminal will also create 10,000 new jobs and have a capacity of around 14 million passengers per year. With these additions, JFK airport could be one step closer to competing with top airports like Singapore’s Changi, which was named the best airport in 2025 by Skytrax.

In addition to its functional use, Terminal 1 has been meticulously designed to incorporate both form and function. The terminal will have a unique Y shape, with an hourglass-shaped skylight in the middle to allow natural light to enter. The overall design will feature light grays, golds, silvers, and whites to create a bright and airy atmosphere. Furthermore, the terminal will incorporate green technology, such as the use of electric vehicles and solar panels on the roof to power a microgrid and ensure constant uptime.

Aside from its eco- and traveler-friendly design, Terminal 1 will also offer cultural experiences to travelers passing through. The design and engineering company Arup is collaborating with various artists and organizations, including Kelly Akashi, Woody De Othello, and Pentagram, to integrate physical and digital art installations throughout the terminal. The goal is to showcase New York City’s culture through local artists and elevate JFK airport’s image as a unique and luxurious travel hub.

While there is still some time before the completion of Terminal 1, the opening of the first phase is just around the corner. Soon, travelers will be able to experience the impressive expansion and all it has to offer.