Qatar Airways to Launch Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK

Strategic Insights -

Qatar Airways has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport as its new home in New York, moving its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026. The airline will also unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge, its first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States. This move is part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's USD 19bn transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway. Qatar Airways' commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience is reflected in its move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport.

Key Takeaways:

  • Qatar Airways will move its operations to The New Terminal One at JFK Airport in 2026, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience.
  • The airline will unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge, its first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States.
  • The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's USD 19bn transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway.
  • The terminal will provide efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways' exclusive lounge, offering premium food and beverage options, best-in-class amenities, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers.
  • In partnership with Qatar Airways, The New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure, featuring modern architecture, light-filled spaces, and advanced technology.
  • The New Terminal One will set a new standard for design and service, aspiring to obtain a Top 5 Skytrax ranking.
  • The terminal will be built on sites now occupied by Terminal 1 and the former Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, and will be anchored by JFK's south side.
  • Construction is taking place in phases, with full completion expected in 2030, and the first phase, including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates, expected to open in 2026.
  • The New Terminal One will be 2.6m square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK and nearly the same size as LaGuardia Airport's two new terminals combined.
  • Qatar Airways currently flies to over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, and aims to serve more than 3m passengers annually in the US.

Statistics:

  • Qatar Airways will move its operations to The New Terminal One at JFK Airport in 2026.
  • The airline will unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge.
  • The New Terminal One will be 2.6m square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK.
  • The terminal will feature 23 gates, with the first phase including 14 new gates.
  • Construction is taking place in phases, with full completion expected in 2030.
  • Qatar Airways serves over 170 destinations worldwide.
  • The airline aims to serve more than 3m passengers annually in the US.

Sources:

  • M2 EQUITYBITES, "Qatar Airways to Launch Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK", August 19, 2025.
  • M2 COMMUNICATIONS, "Qatar Airways to Launch Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK", August 19, 2025.