Qatar Airways Moves to New Terminal One at JFK in 2026; Will Debut First Lounge in U.S
by Marsha Mowers
Qatar Airways, recently named the World’s Best Airline 2025 by Skytrax for a record ninth time, has announced plans to relocate its New York operations to The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
The move, set for 2026, will also mark the debut of a new, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge—the carrier’s first dedicated lounge in both New York City and the United States. Qatar Airways launched operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport.
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,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.
“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 is a cornerstone of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport, aimed at transforming it into a world-class global gateway. The project includes the construction of two new terminals, the expansion and modernization of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation hub, and a streamlined, fully redesigned roadway system.
Qatar Airways currently serves 11 U.S. gateways, carrying more than 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from the U.S., the airline connects travellers to over 170 destinations worldwide via its award-winning hub at Hamad International Airport in Doha.
