Turkish Airlines is eagerly preparing to commence operations from the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), as announced on December 13, 2024. The airline is expected to launch its services at the new terminal in 2026, coinciding with the anticipated opening of what will be the largest international terminal in the U.S. at JFK. This new development marks a significant step in the airline's growth trajectory at its crucial U.S. gateway.
One of the standout features accompanying this new phase is Turkish Airlines' plan to unveil a state-of-the-art lounge designed specifically for its premium passengers. This lounge, spanning an impressive 11,000 square feet, will be twice the size of the current lounge at Terminal 1. It aims to offer an unmatched experience, complete with luxurious amenities, stunning views of the airfield, and direct boarding access, ensuring added convenience for business class travelers and elite frequent flyers.
The New Terminal One is being developed as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's ambitious $19 billion redevelopment of JFK through a project that includes the construction of two new terminals, modernization of existing ones, and significant infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving passenger flow. With 19 flights weekly to Istanbul, Turkish Airlines enables seamless connections to a vast global network, making its role at the new terminal vital.
The New Terminal One's focus will revolve around creating an innovative and customer-centric travel experience highlighted by advanced technology and premium facilities. Currently under construction, this terminal will expand the airport's capabilities and improve the overall efficiency of airport operations, ultimately transforming JFK into a world-class gateway.
Turkish Airlines is recognized globally for its exceptional service, having recently received the World Class Award from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) for the fourth consecutive year. This award places the airline among an elite group of only ten worldwide. Additionally, it has been honored as the Best Airline in Europe by Skytrax on nine occasions. With a portfolio of 351 destinations globally, including 25 in the Americas, the airline’s partners in Star Alliance will also be hosted in the New Terminal One, increasing its prestige.
Jennifer Aument, CEO of The New Terminal One project, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Turkish Airlines to this innovative space, underlining the alignment of their commitment to customer service with the mission of the new terminal. Turkish Airlines Chairman, Prof. Ahmet Bolat, also commented on the exciting prospects that this new terminal and lounge will create for passengers moving forward.
Turkish Airlines is not the only airline expanding its operations in this new facility; it will join other international carriers such as Air France, KLM, Etihad, and Korean Air among others to improve the travel experience for their passengers.
Overall, the New Terminal One at JFK is poised to raise the bar for travel standards at airports, and with Turkish Airlines making a major presence at this facility, travelers can anticipate a transformative experience starting in 2026. As part of its commitment to excellence, the terminal will have features that aim for top rankings in global airport standards, including a goal to achieve a Top 5 Skytrax rating, underscoring the ambition behind this project. As JFK prepares for its significant transformation, Turkish Airlines remains at the forefront, ready to provide its passengers with a world-class airport experience that matches its award-winning in-flight services.
For more information about the New Terminal One at JFK, interested parties can visit the
official website. As we look toward 2026, travelers can look forward to exciting growth and superior travel options that cater to their needs.