Qatar Airways Is Opening Its First U.S. Lounge At The New Terminal One at JFK

Qatar Airways, named World’s Best Airline 2025 for a record ninth time by Skytrax, has selected The New Terminal One at New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new home in New York. The award-winning carrier will move its operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026 and unveil a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge – the airline’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States.

The airline’s move to the New Terminal One and the opening of its first dedicated lounge at JFK Airport is in line with Qatar Airways’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience, and reflects the strategic importance of New York City in Qatar Airways’ global network.

Offering efficient direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ exclusive lounge, the new facility will provide an elevated experience featuring 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.

In partnership with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One will deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s modern architecture, light-filled spaces and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and relaxing customer journey that complements Qatar Airways’ world-renowned onboard service.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “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 travellers to New York and expanding our services in the destination integral to our network in the US.”

The New Terminal One CEO, Jennifer Aument, said: “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.”

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 modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

Qatar Airways launched operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. The airline’s network in the US spans 11 destinations to serve more than 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from JFK, Qatar Airways connects travellers from the US to over 170 destinations worldwide through its home and hub – Doha’s award-winning Hamad International Airport.

Inside Capital One's New 'flagship' Lounge At JFK With Impressive Amenities

Welcome inside the brand-new Capital One Lounge at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), the first credit card-branded lounge to be open 24/7.

This new Capital One Lounge is also home to a few other firsts, including the first "flagship"-branded outpost in the issuer's network, the first with a cheesemonger, the first with a reimagined bodega-style grab-and-go counter, the first to measure nearly 13,500 square feet and much more.

As you can probably already tell, Capital One pulled out all the stops for its first New York outpost. While the issuer might tell you it's because New York is such an important market for its cardmembers, the truth is that JFK, and Terminal 4 in particular, is perhaps the most competitive airport for credit card-branded lounges.

Here's everything you need to know about this brand-new lounge opening Thursday, June 19.

Capital One Lounge JFK access

The $395-
per-year Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the primary way most travelers can access a Capital One Lounge.

Given the changes coming for authorized user and guest access, being a primary Venture X cardholder will become the most practical way to access airport lounges.

Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the Venture X will no longer provide complimentary lounge access to authorized users, nor will it offer automatic complimentary guest access to Capital One Lounges and Capital One Landings for primary cardholders.

Primary cardholders will have the option to pay $125 annually for each authorized user to maintain access to all lounges included with the card (Capital One Lounges, Capital One Landings and Priority Pass lounges). Primary cardholders who want to bring guests into the lounge will need to spend $75,000 a year on their card to unlock this benefit.

The new Capital One Lounge is the first in the network to be open 24/7. While that might be a bit surprising — especially since Terminal 4 only sees a handful of departures between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m., according to Cirium timetables — Capital One didn't actually have a choice in the matter.

One of the nonnegotiable aspects of its lease was that the lounge space must be open around the clock.

The Capital One Lounge at JFK is in the airport's iconic Terminal 4, home primarily to Delta Air Lines' big hub operation, as well as a slew of other international carriers.

If you're flying from Terminal 4, you'll find the lounge just past security on the departures level, which is one level below the entrances to the American Express Centurion Lounge, the Chase Sapphire Lounge and the Delta One Lounge.

The Capital One Lounge is in the central corridor connecting the A and B gates in Terminal 4, but it is a bit closer to the B pier. Either way, expect a long walk to the end of either the A or B pier and plan your visit accordingly.

If you're not flying from Terminal 4, you could theoretically use the lounge before departure by taking the AirTrain from another terminal, but you'll need to clear security twice and allot enough time to make it back to your departure terminal before your flight.

By Zach Griff

JetBlue's Plans For Refresh Of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 5 With 40+ New Concessions And Redesigned Communal Spaces

JetBlue, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Fraport USA, manager of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 5, today announced a major refresh of the airline’s flagship terminal. The addition of more than 40 new concessions, and new amenities, including art installations and a redesigned center concourse inspired by New York’s iconic parks, will create a unique New York sense of place and an elevated customer experience. The first new concessions are expected to open throughout 2025, with the terminal improvements completed by the end of 2026.

JetBlue’s Terminal 5 improvements, which align with the Port Authority’s $19 billion overhaul of JFK Airport, will spotlight locally owned businesses, featuring beloved brands recognized by both New Yorkers and visitors worldwide. With more than 40 new concessions and customer experiences, including more than 18 new local food and beverage options, customers will have more options to enhance their time at JFK.

At the heart of Terminal 5, the center concourse will transform into a space inspired by the city’s famous parks. Lush greenery, park benches, concrete chess tables, and warm lighting provide city park charm for customers to relax before their next flight. The redesigned center concourse will also feature a dedicated space for pop-up experiences, interactive events, and live performances to highlight New York’s world-renowned culture.

Additionally, an art collection featuring more than 30 works by New York-based artists displayed throughout the terminal will transform Terminal 5 into a vibrant cultural destination. As a dynamic showcase of the city’s creativity, Terminal 5 will become a must-visit artistic experience of its own.

“When it opened, Terminal 5 set a new standard for customer-focused airport design that reflected our mission of bringing humanity back to air travel,” said Marty St. George, president of JetBlue. “Now, in support of the Port Authority’s plan to redevelop JFK, we look forward to further enhancing the experience for all who travel through this world-class terminal. This isn’t just about new dining and shopping—it’s about bringing the energy of New York into the terminal. From local flavors to spaces that capture the city we love, we’re making T5 more uniquely New York while staying unmistakably JetBlue.”

“We are proud to build upon our collaboration with JetBlue and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to reimagine and elevate JFK Terminal 5,” said Sabine Trenk, CEO of Fraport USA Inc. “Together, we share a bold vision of transforming the customer experience — delivering a world-class, dynamic retail and dining destination that captivates customers while driving economic growth and innovation.”

“JetBlue and Fraport’s commitment to delivering world-class amenities and concessions to our customers aligns with the Port Authority’s goal of transforming JFK into one of the world’s great global gateways,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “Creating a uniquely New York sense of place at JFK through the additions of iconic local concessions, art and design will make this terminal a memorable part of the customer journey through our region.”

“JetBlue customers traveling through Terminal 5 will soon enjoy authentic products and dining experiences that represent the best of what our region has to offer,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “These improvements by JetBlue and Fraport USA embrace our vision of a world-class customer experience that will serve as the front door of this region to the rest of the world.”

“I am thrilled to see this transformative project take flight, creating good-paying jobs, empowering small businesses, and driving economic growth while establishing JFK Terminal 5 as a state-of-the-art, world-class gateway,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “In addition to bringing the vibrant spirit of New York to the terminal, this project will uplift local communities by ensuring New Yorkers have a direct stake in its success and lasting impact through construction, business partnerships, and over 40 new concessions.”

“The historic $19 billion redevelopment of Kennedy Airport continues to pay incredible dividends for Queens families. A refreshed Terminal 5 will not only give travelers a fantastic first impression of The World's Borough, it will create good-paying jobs for Queens residents and concession opportunities for our small businesses,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I'm deeply grateful to JetBlue, Queens' hometown airline, for its investment in our borough and to all our partners for their commitment to the overall reimagining of Kennedy Airport.”

A Flavor and Feel of New York City

A mix of globally recognized and locally rooted operators will debut an exceptional array of offerings to the terminal, bringing in brands such as Eataly, The Halal Guys and Shake Shack alongside NYC hot spots such as Jacob’s Pickles, Tiki Chick, Serafina, Benetari’s, Gotham Burger, Birch Coffee, Nom Wah, Devoción, Mister Paradise, the Blind Barber, Leon’s Bagels, DiFara Pizza, Neir’s Tavern and much more. These chosen prime operators are dedicated to service and include HMSHost, Hudson Group, SSP America, OTG Management, M&R Concessions, WHSmith, Paradies Lagardere and Half Moon Empanadas.

As part of the federal airport concessions disadvantaged business enterprise (ACDBE) program, joint-venture partnerships between prime operators and ACDBEs allow for local and small businesses new to airport concessions to be paired with experienced prime operators. These ACDBEs are selected after demonstrating they have the financial capacity and business acumen for the rigorous airport environment. As joint-venture partners, ACDBE firms will learn how to operate concessions at an airport while also strengthening their position in the business community.

Local and ACDBE Businesses Selected as Joint-Venture Partners

Neir’s Tavern (Queens)

Brooklyn Tea Seller (Brooklyn)

Sugar Hill Creamery (Manhattan)

Nana’s Love (Queens)

Ranchito Salvadoreno (Queens)

Neat Rules Hospitality (Manhattan)

Byrd Retail Group (Brooklyn)

The Nourish Spot (Queens)

Sullivan Hernandez Group (Nassau County)

M&R Concessions (Queens)

The Terminal 5 project represents an investment in the local community and in New York City. From construction to business partnerships, the project will create jobs, contributing to economic growth and supporting small businesses. JetBlue, Fraport USA, and the Port Authority are actively collaborating with the JFK Redevelopment Community Advisory Council to ensure that the investment in Terminal 5 enhances economic growth and opportunities in the communities surrounding the airport. The partnership is committed to fostering local business engagement, job creation, and long-term economic vitality that extends beyond the terminal walls.

Since opening Terminal 5 in 2008 and expanding it in 2014, the terminal has been recognized for its customer-focused design and amenities. Today, it serves 165 JetBlue flights and more than 35,000 customers per day.

As JetBlue continues its investment at JFK — including growth through the new Terminal 6, which will seamlessly connect with Terminal 5 and a forthcoming customer lounge — these improvements ensure that the airline’s flagship terminal remains a premier destination worthy of the incredible city it’s inspired by.

JetBlue is New York's Hometown Airline® , and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Los Angeles, Orlando and San Juan. JetBlue carries customers to more than 100 destinations throughout the United States, Latin America, Caribbean, Canada and Europe. For more information and the best fares, visit jetblue.com.

Travelore News: Power Outage Cancels, Diverts International Flights At Kennedy Airport

NEW YORK (AP) — A power outage in a terminal of New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport stretched into a second day Friday after forcing some flights to be canceled or diverted, including one that was turned around and sent back to New Zealand after nearly making it to the U.S.

The airport operators said in a tweet late Thursday that Terminal 1, which handles some of the airport’s international flights, would remain closed Friday “due to electrical issues.”

The outage was caused by an electrical panel failure that led to a small fire, which was quickly extinguished, authorities said.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which runs New York’s major airports, said it was working to accommodate affected flights at JFK’s four other active terminals.

The agency did not provide any estimate of how many flights were canceled or diverted, but thousands of travelers were likely affected.

Yahayra Hunt and her husband were stuck in a hotel near the airport Friday after their flight to Rome was canceled Thursday. They’re part of a group of 16 people who booked an 11-day tour to Italy and Israel.

“We actually have another agent trying to see if we can find another airport to fly out of,” she said. “It’s a nightmare.”

Hunt, 46, said they would like to leave the hotel and see the city as they wait. But they don’t want to risk missing a rescheduled flight.

“Being stuck in a hotel during your vacation is not fair at all,” said Hunt, who owns a beauty salon in North Carolina.

Some planes were forced to return to their points of origin.

An Air New Zealand flight was two-thirds of the way across the Pacific Ocean when it had to make a U-turn and head back to Auckland. The flight landed back in New Zealand after more than 16 hours in the air.

Terminal 1 opened in the late 1990s. It is scheduled to be replaced by a new, $9.5 billion terminal now under construction. Groundbreaking was initially supposed to happen in 2020 but was delayed until last summer by the COVID-19 pandemic.

U.S. Airports Roll Out Kiosks To Speed Customs Wait Times

Customers of United wait in line to check in at Newark International airport in New Jersey, November 15, 2012. Eduardo Munoz / Reuters

On her way from London to Ithaca, New York, through Newark Liberty Airport on Wednesday morning, Cindy Gration found herself spending more time talking about the new automated passport kiosk she’d just used than it took to use the machine itself.

Count it as a small piece of validation of the new system, which debuted a few weeks ago but was officially unveiled Wednesday and touted as an advancement toward reducing lines at customs for international trav“This technology allows customers to have shorter connect times so they can meet their obligations, and that’s really important,” said Don Wright, United Airlines’ vice president for Newark.Twenty kiosks are set up in Terminal C for arriving travelers, with 10 more scheduled to be installed soon. They’re already in use in about 20 U.S. airports including New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. They’re planned for several more airports including Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Tampa, Phoenix and Minneapolis.

American citizens returning from international trips and Canadian citizens arriving in the U.S. for short business trips are eligible to use the service, said Robert Perez, director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s New York field office.

Travelers use the kiosks by scanning their passport and having the machine take a photo of them to compare the two. Then they answer several questions about whether they’re declaring any goods. A law enforcement check is done electronically through the kiosk, and the traveler receives a receipt to bring to the customs line, where an agent takes over.

The whole process takes about two minutes.

Previously, those steps were performed by a customs agent, which contributed to long lines — more than an hour in places like Newark and JFK, according to Wright, who called the kiosks “a good step in the right direction.”

“It seems to work well and it’s fast,” Gration said. “And you’re still going to go through and talk to a human being, which comforts me.”

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