Passengers now benefit from an enhanced travel experience at New York JFK, with American Airlines and British Airways co-locating in the newly-renovated Terminal 8, delivering seamless connections as part of the $400 million investment. This marks completion of the first phase of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s redevelopment of the airport.

“We are thrilled to welcome our long-standing joint business partner, British Airways, as it joins American and other oneworld partners at Terminal 8,” said Robert Isom, CEO, American Airlines. “As part of our investment to transform JFK into a leading global airport, we are excited to offer customers expanded terminal space, new check-in areas and elegant lounges.”

The expansion of Terminal 8 is a critical component of the JFK Vision Plan that is designed to transform the airport, delivering “a 21st-century customer experience and increased connectivity for travellers”.

The move by British Airways brings the carrier closer to its partner airlines as Terminal 8 becomes home to five oneworld Alliance carriers, including Iberia and Japan Airlines which expects to move its operations to Terminal 8 in May 2023.

“We announced our joint investment early in 2019 so it is an honour to reach this significant milestone with our business partner, American Airlines,” said Sean Doyle, Chairman and CEO, British Airways. “From 1 December, our customers and colleagues will be able to enjoy all the benefits that Terminal 8 has to offer.”

Operational enhancements of Terminal 8 include 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 also been expanded with approximately 130,000 square feet of additional and refurbished space.

Premium customers of both American Airlines and British Airways will be able to enjoy an elevated travel journey. Upon arrival at JFK, they will be greeted at a brand-new co-branded premium check-in area providing personalised, concierge-style service.

Once through security, there are three custom lounges. The two brand-new lounges – Chelsea and Soho – have been designed with original high-end finishes, evoking a unique sense of space while aiming to elevate the passenger experience.

“This inspiring expansion of Terminal 8, fostering superb hourly services 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 the other,” said Rick Cotton, Executive Director, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. “Thanks to the investment made by American Airlines and British Airways, Terminal 8 – with five new widebody gates – offers an improved passenger experience and expanded capacity for transatlantic travel to and from JFK. 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.”