Air New Zealand Partners with JFK Airport's New Terminal One for Enhanced Travel Experience

Air New Zealand Partners with The New Terminal One at JFK Airport

Air New Zealand has launched an exciting partnership with The New Terminal One, set to redefine its operations at New York's JFK Airport. This collaboration aims to elevate the passenger experience for those traveling on the airline’s flagship Auckland to New York City route, providing enhanced services and state-of-the-art facilities from 2026.

The New Terminal One forms a pivotal part of a massive $19 billion transformation project overseen by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, aimed at transforming JFK into a modern, world-class gateway. This ambitious upgrade will introduce two new terminals, expand two existing ones, create a sophisticated ground transportation center, and streamline the airport's overall road network.

Currently, Air New Zealand operates out of JFK’s existing Terminal 1. However, with plans to shift to the New Terminal One upon its 2026 opening, the airline is poised to offer a premium travel experience that aligns with its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. As a key member of the Star Alliance, Air New Zealand’s choice of the New Terminal One further illustrates its dedication to delivering a top-notch experience to passengers in one of its most important international destinations.

Offering a tri-weekly nonstop service between Auckland and JFK utilizing its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the route spans over 17 hours, making it one of the longest flights in the world. This nonstop connection, launched in 2022, allows travelers to seamlessly traverse across the globe from New Zealand to the bustling streets of New York City.

Jennifer Aument, CEO of The New Terminal One, expressed her enthusiasm: "Our team is committed to growing with our airline partners, and we are thrilled that Air New Zealand has chosen us for this pivotal stage of their journey at JFK. Their flagship service to New York City demands a world-class experience, and we are proud to be their partner in achieving it."

On the other hand, Ben Evers-Swindell, General Manager Americas at Air New Zealand, shared his thoughts: "Since commencing our operations to JFK over two years ago, this route has become foundational to our service offerings. Ensuring an extraordinary airport experience is paramount for us, particularly for passengers embarking on long-haul journeys. We eagerly await our transition to The New Terminal One and the chance to enhance our customer journeys starting in 2026."

Air New Zealand joins an eminent group of international airlines that have committed to operating from The New Terminal One, including prestigious names like Air France, KLM, and Korean Air. The terminal also features a collaboration with Air China to enrich the travel experience for visitors from China to New York.

Scheduled to officially open in 2026, The New Terminal One will boast cutting-edge technology and a world-class retail and dining experience reflective of New York’s unique character. The purpose-built international terminal, with its expanse of 2.6 million square feet, is set to become the largest terminal at JFK.

About The New Terminal One

The New Terminal One at JFK represents a bold initiative to develop a premier international terminal, acting as a flagship in the Port Authority's grand endeavor to revamp JFK into a global hub. The terminal is designed to aim for top-tier status among the world’s airport terminals, with hopes of achieving a Top 5 Skytrax ranking.

Currently in construction across the areas occupied by Terminal 1 and former Terminals 2 and 3, the New Terminal One is slated for phased completion. The initial phase, featuring new arrival and departure areas with 14 new gates, is set for a 2026 completion, while full completion is anticipated by 2030. When completed, it will cover the same space as two of LaGuardia Airport's new terminals combined.

This new terminal will focus on environmentally-friendly designs, leveraging expansive natural light, advanced technology, and a variety of amenities to enhance the traveler’s experience and compete with leading airport terminals worldwide.

Led by a consortium of partners including Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle, the New Terminal One project emphasizes local job inclusion, diversity, and sustainability, setting ambitious participation goals for minority-owned and women-owned businesses, alongside efforts to include veteran-owned enterprises.

About Air New Zealand

Founded in 1940, Air New Zealand has established itself as a beacon of Kiwi hospitality, operating a modern fleet known for efficiency, with an average aircraft age of 8.7 years. Centered around New Zealand, the airline connects travelers to major cities across the globe, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and service through its loyalty program, Airpoints.

With a comprehensive domestic network covering 20 regions in New Zealand, Air New Zealand's international routes connect travelers to numerous destinations in Australia, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the United States, fostering connectivity and convenience across vast distances. The aircraft's distinct Mangōpare tail livery symbolizes the airline's resilience and strength, attributes it embodies as it evolves to meet the needs of its valued customers.