Qatar Airways has chosen the New Terminal One at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as its new base in the city. The award-winning airline is set to relocate its operations to this cutting-edge terminal in 2026, introducing a premium, 15,000-square-foot Qatar Airways lounge—marking the airline’s inaugural dedicated lounge in both New York City and the entire United States.
The transition to the New Terminal One and the debut of its first exclusive lounge at JFK Airport underscores Qatar Airways’ dedication to providing an outstanding travel experience and highlights the strategic significance of New York City within the airline’s global network, according to a statement.
With direct access to the boarding gate from Qatar Airways’ private lounge, the new facility promises an elevated experience, featuring premium food and beverage selections along with top-tier amenities. These include VIP check-in services, relaxation zones, prayer rooms, children’s play areas, premium dining options, and duty-free shopping for Qatar Airways Business Class travelers.
Modern design and advanced technology
In collaboration with Qatar Airways, the New Terminal One aims to deliver an exceptional guest experience from arrival to departure. The terminal’s contemporary architecture, spacious light-filled areas, and advanced technology will ensure a seamless and soothing customer journey, complementing Qatar Airways’ globally recognized onboard service.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer stated, “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 U.S. 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.”
He added, “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 U.S.”
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Connecting global destinations
Jennifer Aument, CEO of New Terminal One, remarked, “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 vital element of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion initiative to transform JFK Airport into a world-class gateway. This transformation will encompass two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and a completely new, streamlined roadway network.
Qatar Airways commenced operations in New York in 2008 at Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. The airline’s U.S. network spans 11 destinations, serving over 3 million passengers annually. With 18 weekly flights from JFK, Qatar Airways connects travelers from the U.S. to more than 170 destinations worldwide via its home and hub—Doha’s award-winning Hamad International Airport.
Introducing global winter schedule
In July 2025, Qatar Airways announced an increase in flights to over 15 global destinations for this year’s winter season. This initiative aims to meet the rising demand for its services from travelers worldwide, enhancing choice and connectivity through its Doha hub, the award-winning Hamad International Airport.
Among the notable expansions, Qatar Airways has marked a landmark frequency to London, offering up to 10 daily flights—the highest ever for the airline. This notable frequency is further supported by British Airways’ double daily flights to the same destination. Additionally, the airline has increased its frequency to Abu Dhabi from five daily flights to up to six and expanded its Berlin flights from 18 weekly to as many as 21. Flights to Cape Town will rise from 10 weekly to 12 in the winter season, while services to Casablanca will increase from four weekly flights to five.
Further expansions include Dublin, which will see an increase from 14 weekly flights to 17; Frankfurt, rising from 18 weekly flights to up to 21; and Johannesburg, which will grow from 14 weekly flights to 18. London Heathrow will also see an increase from eight daily flights to up to 10. Other enhancements include Madrid, which will increase from 14 weekly flights to 17; the Maldives, rising from three daily flights to up to four; Manchester, expanding from 21 weekly flights to 24; Phuket, increasing from three daily flights to up to four; São Paulo, which will grow from 14 weekly flights to 18; Sharjah, increasing from three daily flights to up to seven; Tokyo Narita, rising from 11 weekly flights to up to 14; and Toronto, which will increase from five weekly flights to seven.
