In a somewhat surprising move, Qatar Airways announced that it will be relocating its base of operations at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Qatar is Moving to the New Terminal One
Qatar Airways has announced it will relocate its New York operations to the New Terminal One (NTO) at JFK Airport in 2026. The carrier currently operates from Terminal 8 at JFK, which is home to OneWorld alliance partners American Airlines and British Airways.
It’s worth noting that the carrier won’t move until construction of the new terminal is completed. This will replace the current Terminal One which is cramped and overcrowded. The New Terminal One CEO, Jennifer Aument, said this about Qatar’s upcoming move:
We thank the Qatar Airways team for their confidence in us as we begin this exciting new chapter together at JFK. As an airline long synonymous with excellence, Qatar Airways’ decision to partner with the New Terminal One reaffirms the strong value we offer international carriers seeking to grow their presence in New York.”
For those not familiar with the project, the New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.
The first phase of the project, including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates, is expected to open in 2026. Upon completion in 2030, the New Terminal One will have a total of 23 gates and measure 2.6 million square feet, making it the largest terminal at JFK.
Qatar Airways Will Open its First U.S. Lounge at JFK’s Terminal One
The move to Terminal One comes with a major perk for Qatar’s premium passengers. The carrier is opening its first-ever dedicated lounge in the United States. The 15,000 square foot lounge will offer premium food and beverage options and best-in-class amenities including VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers.
Guests visiting the new lounge will also have the ability to board directly from the gate, further elevating the ground experience for passengers. This is a far cry from the current Terminal One which can’t even reliably offer premium security for travelers.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said this about the new lounge and relocation of operations:
“We, at Qatar Airways, look forward to launching our operations at JFK Airport’s New Terminal One and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first-ever exclusive lounge in the US. Our new state-of-the-art lounge will provide an enhanced experience at each touchpoint and complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience. From dedicated airport transfers to VIP check-in to the finest of retail and dining options, premium passengers will be offered the World’s Best service at New Terminal One. Our move demonstrates the evolution of Qatar Airways’ long-standing commitment to connecting global travelers to New York and expanding our services in the destination integral to our network in the US.”
Summary
In a surprising move, Qatar Airways is moving from Terminal 8, home to fellow OneWorld alliance members American Airlines and British Airways, over to the New Terminal One. As part of the move, which is expected to occur in 2026, the carrier will open its first dedicated lounge in the United States.