JFK Airport’s New Terminal 6
In January 2017, the JFK Vision Plan was unveiled, outlining an ambitious transformation of John F. Kennedy International Airport into a world-class facility. This strategic framework aimed to completely redevelop, modify, and expand existing infrastructure. The recent milestone of breaking ground on the $4.2 billion Terminal 6 marks a significant step in realizing this vision.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in collaboration with JFK Millennium Partners, celebrated the one-year anniversary of breaking ground on Terminal 6. The $4.2 billion terminal is on schedule, with the last steel beams expected to be erected this summer, and gates opening in 2026.
Throughout the construction phase, Terminal 6 is expected to generate over 4,000 jobs, including 1,800 union construction jobs, with direct wages reaching $1.9 billion.
World-Class Facility: Features and Amenities
Terminal 6 is designed as a state-of-the-art facility that will elevate JFK International Airport to rival the best globally. The development includes a curated collection of New York City-inspired retail, dining options, and amenities spanning nearly 100,000 square feet. From a digital-first approach to sustainability certifications (LEED, Envision, and SITES), the terminal promises a boutique-style, passenger-centric experience.
Airlines and Operations: Lufthansa Group’s Move
Although JetBlue Airways is an investor in the project and some of its services will operate from Terminal 6, another big name will be the primary tenant.
Lufthansa Group has announced its relocation to Terminal 6, operating flights to various European destinations. The group, comprising Lufthansa, SWISS International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines, will offer a world-class lounge experience for travelers. Advanced discussions with other carriers are underway.
Phased Development: Completion by 2028
JMP is executing the Terminal 6 development in two phases. The first five gates are set to open in early 2026, with the entire construction to conclude by 2028. The project aligns with the broader $19 billion redevelopment plan led by the Port Authority, aiming to transform JFK into a 21st-century global gateway.
Digital-First Experience and Sustainability
The new terminal boasts a digital concierge, automated baggage system, and the latest TSA screening technologies. Sustainability is a key focus, incorporating sustainably sourced materials, rooftop solar power, and energy-efficient systems. Certification processes for LEED, Envision, and SITES are currently underway.
Public-Private Partnerships and Private Investment
The Terminal 6 project is part of a larger initiative representing a $19 billion transformation of JFK International Airport. It involves a series of public-private partnerships, with a significant capital investment by the Port Authority. The collaboration has leveraged private investment, reaching over $15 billion across the entire JFK redevelopment program.
The developments at Terminal 6 align with the ongoing transformation of JFK International Airport, encompassing the New Terminal One, the expansion of Terminal 4, and the modernization of Terminal 8. The collective efforts represent a monumental public-private venture, reshaping JFK into a premier global aviation hub.
