Transatlantic partners American Airlines and British Airways are to start using a revamped Terminal 8 at New York’s JFK airport.
The two airlines are co-locating operations from tomorrow (December 1) to provide improved connections as part of a $400 million investment.
BA is moving from Terminal 7 to an expanded Terminal 8 as part of a plan designed to transform the airport into a world-class global hub.
Terminal 8 will become home for five Oneworld Alliance carriers with Iberia also planning to switch to Terminal 8 on December 1 and Japan Airlines in May 2023.
Enhancements of Terminal 8 include five new gates for wide body aircraft, four new aircraft parking positions, and an expanded and upgraded baggage handling system that will together support additional transatlantic flights.
The terminal has also been expanded with about 130,000 square feet of additional and refurbished space.
Premium passengers will use a new co-branded check-in area providing personalised, concierge-style service.
The renovated building offers expanded terminal space, new check-in areas and elegant lounges, according to American Airlines’ chief executive Robert Isom.
This marks the completion of the first phase of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s redevelopment of the airport.
Port Authority of New York & New Jersey executive director Rick Cotton said: “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.
“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.
“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.”
BA chief executive Sean Doyle said, “We announced our joint investment early in 2019 so it is an honour 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.”