By Chase Hagl
American Airlines, British Airways Redevelop JFK’s Terminal 8
On Tuesday, American Airlines announced further plans to significantly enhance Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The carrier — partnered with British Airways on the project — will redevelop and expand to the existing terminal, not only bringing a world-class experience to its customers but will build upon the Atlantic Joint Business partners relationship.
The project is made possible through a $400 million investment and has an end goal of creating a more seamless and efficient experience for its customers. The upgrade will help the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey move closer to its vision of transforming JFK into a leading global airport.
The intensive redevelopment project had initially begun early 2020 when the two airlines broke ground on five new widebody gates, four new widebody hardstand parking positions, an enhanced baggage handling system, new customer amenities and expanded premium guest offerings — including approximately 130,000 square feet of new and renovated terminal space.
The two airlines plan to co-operate out of Terminal 8 in December of 2022. Currently, British Airways operates out of JFK’s Terminal 7 but will relocate operations.
“American is eager to welcome British Airways to their new home at JFK,” American’s Chief Customer Officer Alison Taylor said in a press release. “Their move to Terminal 8 further deepens our longstanding partnership and makes it easier than ever for customers traveling between New York and London or onward across our global networks.”
The oneworld alliance partners plan to create a simpler travel experience through the redevelopment. Currently, American Airlines and British Airways offer the most flights for those passengers making the trip across the pond between New York and London.
“New York holds a special place in our heart as one of our most well-loved and important destinations,” British Airways’ Director of Brand and Customer Experience, Tom Stevens, said. “Our move to the redeveloped and expanded Terminal 8 will bring a range of benefits for our customers, including a better transfer experience, enabling them to travel to more than 30 destinations across the U.S., Caribbean and Latin America with American Airlines. British Airways will remain in Terminal 7 until Dec. 1, 2022, and we have continued to invest in the experience for our customers, including our check-in area, concessions and lounges.”
Customers arriving at Terminal 8 can expect to be greeted by the co-branded premium check-in area.
Once past security, select guests have access to three custom lounges based on the cabin of travel and loyalty program status. The lounges will combine the best of both brands, creating a very unique experience. Each of the three lounges incorporates unique options — allowing all guests to experience
The most exclusive lounge for top-tier customers will have an all-new champagne bar, fireside lounge and a la carte dining room, which reimagines American’s Flagship First Dining into a fully immersive experience.
Across the way will be another premium lounge including airside views, a wine bar, cocktail lounge, library and buffet. The third lounge will be a contiguous lounge for eligible business class customers repurposed from American’s Flagship Lounge and Concourse B Admirals Club.
Chase Hagl grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho. His love and passion for Aviation landed him in Orem, Utah where he’s finishing up a B.S. in Aviation Management with a minor in Business Management from Utah Valley University. Following graduation, Chase has plans to obtain his MBA from UVU while employed. His experience in the aviation industry spans back four years, working in areas including agriculture application, customer service, maintenance, and flight ops. In his free time, Chase enjoys road biking, astronomy, and flying.
