The Biggest Airport In New York Is Getting A Major Upgrade In 2026

One of the best airports in the U.S. (and also the largest in New York), John F. Kennedy International Airport, is about to get serious improvements. And by 2026, major changes will become noticeable, among which is the New Terminal One — a $9.5 billion project set to replace the old terminals 1 to 3 with a single, slick international hub that's expected to be completed by 2030. This New Terminal One is stepping in as the largest terminal ever built at JFK, as it'll be spanning a whopping 2.4 million square feet.

What's more, the new terminal is going to feature 23 state-of-the-art gates to be rolled out in phases. This phased development will allow travelers to start enjoying some of the improvements even as construction is still going on. In addition to the gates, there will also be a huge 300,000-square-foot space for recreation, with the availability of dining, lounges, and retail activities. Meanwhile, other terminals such as 4, 6, and 8 are also getting upgraded, as there's over $19 billion set aside for an overall facelift of the airport. These changes certainly matter considering JFK's reputation as one of the busiest U.S. airports, with millions of people moving through on a yearly basis. And, honestly, the old layout has long struggled to keep up with the population strain.

Now the airport will be able to accommodate the teeming passenger population more efficiently, ultimately reducing delays and congestion. Importantly, the project is expected to create more than 10,000 jobs, as well as hundreds of opportunities within retail, hospitality, and other related work, further boosting New York's economy and providing a better experience for travelers.

According to New York governor Kathy Hochul, one of the key ideas behind the project is to ensure all New Yorkers and visitors enjoy a first-class experience at JFK airport. And indeed, the New Terminal One and the entire airport makeover is meant to make things easier and more comfortable for everyone. When everything is finally completed, you can expect shorter walking distances, more restaurants and shops, as well as naturally lit and wider spaces that feel more like a hospitable neighborhood. There will also be newly designed AirTrain, sophisticated train cars with better capacity, as well as an improved roadway network around the airport.

Moreover, there will be tech upgrades, helping reduce bottlenecks and make arrivals and departures smoother. Specifically, it's been confirmed that the airport is bringing in biometric facial recognition, as well as self-service bag drops and electric ground service. Apart from these, JFK is also going to do one of the largest airport-terminal solar installations, with incorporated tinted-glass solar panels expected to generate 35% to 40% of the terminal's total energy. The design will also include a rainwater catchment system. As a matter of fact, the terminal is being built with LEED Silver certification in mind; the focus on sustainability is clear.

Nonetheless, it's important to remember that the first opening phase will involve only a few gates of terminals 1 and 6, which will be accessible in 2026, while the full redevelopment of the airport continues till the end of the decade. On this note, it's essential to keep informed by looking out for official announcements regarding the project from time to time. In the meanwhile, you can brush up on some helpful tips and tricks for navigating airports in New York City.