Qatar Airways is making a significant upgrade at New York’s JFK Airport. In 2026, the airline will move its New York operations from Terminal 8 to the much-anticipated New Terminal One. Along with this relocation comes the launch of its entirely new 15,000-square-foot U.S. airport lounge, the airline’s first dedicated lounge in the United States.
The move highlights both Qatar’s commitment to premium services and its strategic emphasis on New York as a vital hub in its global network. The revitalized terminal and lounge aim to deliver seamless customer journeys with a touch of Doha-based sophistication at every point of contact. The new Terminal One is a marquee element of JFK’s $19 billion modernization project.
A Lounge Like No Other: Amenities Redefined
Qatar’s new U.S. lounge is being crafted to set a new standard for airport hospitality. With direct access to boarding gates, the facility promises efficiency and exclusivity for premium travelers. Expect VIP check-in services to streamline entry, along with relaxation zones for unwinding, seller-curated dining experiences, and a selection of premium food and beverage options.
The facility will also accommodate cultural and lifestyle needs with built-in prayer rooms, children’s play areas, and duty-free shopping, all designed under one roof. The airline’s CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasized that this lounge will mirror Qatar’s award-winning onboard service starting the moment travelers enter the terminal. Having multiple lounges already in cities like London, Paris, Singapore, Beirut, and Bangkok, the JFK lounge will become Qatar’s sixth international facility outside Doha, further developing the brand’s global premium footprint.
Terminal One: A Game-Changing Gateway for New York
The relocation to New Terminal One positions Qatar Airways within a modern, light-filled terminal that elevates the New York travel experience. Designed to become JFK’s largest international terminal, the new facility is expected to open in phases starting in 2026 and fully complete by 2030. Its sweeping architecture, incorporated retail options, and streamlined ground transportation system will support a better travel flow – reflecting the airport’s development into a global gateway.
Qatar’s move also aligns with the terminal’s goal to become a Skytrax top-ranked experience. Importantly, it invites broader collaboration with global carriers, offering premium travelers cohesive services across the terminal. While currently the airline operates from Terminal 8, this shift allows for improved services – but connectivity to other terminals may become more complex. Despite this, Qatar seems confident that the long-term gains in luxury and brand visibility outweigh the short-term inconvenience for connecting passengers.
