Saudia Joins New Terminal One at JFK, Enhancing Connectivity with Saudi Arabia

The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is set to welcome Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, when the state-of-the-art terminal opens in 2026. This partnership marks a significant enhancement in the connectivity between the United States and Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion vision to transform JFK into a premier global gateway.

The ultimate goal of this new terminal is to create an unparalleled travel experience, complete with exceptional retail and dining options featuring both global brands and local artisan businesses. As the flagship carrier of Saudi Arabia, Saudia will transition from the existing Terminal 1 to the New Terminal One, allowing for a more expansive operational capacity and a modernized environment.

Saudia currently operates nonstop flights from JFK to Jeddah and Riyadh. When the New Terminal One opens, passengers can expect expanded schedules and the introduction of new flight times. This will notably enhance the Jeddah-New York route, offering increased frequencies and improved access to 12 additional U.S. destinations through a codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines.

Saudi Arabia has been increasingly recognized as a sought-after global destination, drawing attention with its rich blend of historical heritage and contemporary attractions. From the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites of AlUla to the charm of Jeddah's Old Town and the stunning beaches along the Red Sea, the country presents a wide-ranging spectrum of cultural, historical, and natural wonders for international visitors.

Jennifer Aument, CEO of The New Terminal One at JFK, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, _“We are honored to welcome Saudia to the New Terminal One. Our team is dedicated to creating an incredible travel experience that aligns with Saudia's ambitious vision. We look forward to building a strong and lasting partnership with Saudia in New York - one of its most important global gateways.”_

Saudia is joining a community of over 20 international airlines that continue to commit to operating from the New Terminal One. Other notable airlines include Air France, KLM, Etihad, Korean Air, Emirates, and Qatar Airways, setting the stage for a diverse range of international travel opportunities.

About The New Terminal One

The New Terminal One represents an ambitious project that aims to define and develop a world-class international terminal at JFK. It serves as a vital component of the JFK redevelopment initiative, which transforms the airport into a major global gateway not just to New York City but to the entire United States. The project aspires to achieve a top 5-star Skytrax rating, setting new benchmarks for design and service in airport facilities.

Construction is currently in various phases, with the first phase expected to unveil new arrivals and departures halls along with the initial set of 14 new gates in 2026. Once completed, the New Terminal One will encompass a total of 23 gates across 2.6 million square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK, nearly equivalent in size to the dual new terminals at LaGuardia Airport.

The development consortium behind New Terminal One includes top-tier partners like Ferrovial, JLC Infrastructure, Ullico, and Carlyle. Notably, the project will be completed using union labor while emphasizing local inclusion and diversity, committing participation goals for minority and women-owned enterprises, and service-disabled veterans.

The combination of these strategic elements aims to redefine travel at JFK, with hopes of establishing a landmark for international flights. As the New Terminal One project progresses, it not only welcomes international partners like Saudia but also aims to enhance the overall passenger experience as travelers connect to destinations worldwide.

For more information about the New Terminal One at JFK, you can visit their official portal at Port Authority.

In conclusion, the addition of Saudia aligns perfectly with the ongoing advancements that aim to elevate New York's JFK Airport to new heights, fostering greater international connectivity and making travel to Saudi Arabia more accessible than ever.