Airport Intelligence Series

JFK’s Terminal One Redevelopment: Design and Digital Focus

February 2026

 

The New Terminal One (NTO), PANYNJ $9.5 billion USD project, at John F. Kennedy International Airport (scheduled to open in phases starting in 2026) is a major redevelopment project designed to integrate modern architectural design, advanced technology systems, and resilient infrastructure as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s broader transformation of JFK. The terminal’s architecture emphasizes open, naturally lit spaces and functional circulation for high passenger volumes.

Design and Spatial Features:

  • The terminal spans roughly 2.4–2.6 million square feet with 23 gates planned by 2030, making it the largest at JFK.
  • High ceilings and a central spine of skylights enhance natural lighting in key interior zones.
  • Public areas include ~300,000 sq ft of dining, retail, lounges, and green space, including indoor and outdoor areas for passengers.
  • Architectural strategies aim for LEED Silver certification with materials and systems that support energy efficiency.

Technology & Passenger Experience:

  • The terminal will incorporate touchless and digital systems including mobile check-in, self-service kiosks, and automated bag drops for streamlined processing.
  • Biometric security screening and advanced video analytics in TSA lanes support faster and more efficient security processing.
  • Charging stations and free high-speed Wi-Fi are integrated throughout passenger spaces.
  • A Disaster Recovery System (DRS) has been tested to maintain passenger processing during system disruptions, allowing fast check-in and boarding continuity.

Energy & Resilience Technology:

  • The terminal is designed with a microgrid energy system and solar arrays on the roof to generate a significant portion of its power, improving sustainability and operational resilience.
  • Electric ground support equipment (GSE) will be deployed as a centralized all-electric fleet, which is an industry first for a terminal.

Overall, the design and technology strategy for New Terminal One focuses on operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and a digitally enabled passenger journey.

 

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