American Airlines and British Airways are ready to welcome customers to the newly renovated Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Starting December 1, customers will enjoy an enhanced travel experience with seamless connections as the two airlines co-locate operations as part of a $400 million joint investment. This marks the completion of the first phase of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s redevelopment of the airport.

To celebrate British Airways moving from Terminal 7 to Terminal 8, Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton joined American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and British Airways Chairman and CEO Sean Doyle to officially unveil a redesigned check-in area, new gates and world-class lounges.

The co-location supports the Port Authority’s plan to transform JFK into a leading global airport. The move brings British Airways closer to its partner airlines as Terminal 8 becomes home for eight oneworld® Alliance carriers. Iberia plans to move into Terminal 8 on Dec. 1, and Japan Airlines expects to move its operations to Terminal 8 in May 2023.

The co-location of American and British Airways is enabled by a $400 million investment to redevelop and expand Terminal 8. Key operational enhancements include five new widebody gates, four new widebody parking positions, and an expanded and upgraded baggage handling system. The terminal has also been expanded with approximately 130,000 square feet of additional and refurbished space.

This project would not have been possible without the work of more than 115 unique minority-owned business (MBE) and women-owned business (WBE) firms that were awarded contracts totaling more than $150 million. American and British Airways are also proud to partner with local Queens, New York, businesses that were awarded $33 million in contracts.

Premium customers traveling on both airlines will be able to enjoy an elevated travel journey at JFK. Upon arrival, premium customers will be greeted at the brand new co-branded premium check-in area, which will provide personalized, concierge-style service. Thoughtfully designed architectural elements also define an exclusive check-in space for eligible customers.

Once through security, three distinctive lounges; Chelsea, Soho and Greenwich, combine the best of both brands and provide a refined, welcoming preflight experience for eligible customers based on cabin of travel and loyalty program status. The two brand new lounges — Chelsea and Soho — have been designed with original high-end finishes, evoking a unique sense of space while elevating the experience and service offered to every guest.

• The Chelsea Lounge features a stunning circular champagne bar; a relaxed, yet elegant, fireside lounge; luxury showers; and a dedicated space for la carte dining.
• The elegant Soho Lounge features floor-to-ceiling windows with fantastic airside views.
• American’s Flagship® Lounge will be rebranded as the Greenwich Lounge and will feature a premium wine table, expansive seating and chef-inspired meals.

The project was led by Holt Construction, one of the country’s premier construction management and general contracting firms with more than 100 years of experience. Gensler, the world’s leading architecture and design firm, was commissioned to design the premium check-in area and lounges, and global hospitality leader Sodexo Live! — through its dedicated minority-owned and managed company SodexoMagic — will deliver an outstanding offering of food and drinks to lounge guests.