Terminal 5 at JFK is set to receive more than 40 new concessions, dozens of new works of art, and a more calming parklike feel as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s larger $19 billion upgrade to the airport.
The new shops, including outposts of New York’s famous Eataly and Shake Shack, will open throughout 2025 with the physical terminal improvements due for completion by the end of 2026.
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The refresh comes as JetBlue struggles to regain its footing as one of America’s more innovative and customer-friendly airlines. In the past year, the airline has slashed money-losing routes and unveiled a new domestic first-class product, and is set to debut its first premium lounges at JFK by the end of the year and at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in 2026. And the airline is even seeking a new partner after being forced to end its Northeast Alliance with American Airlines in 2023.
Add to that list updating the airport’s nearly two-decade-old home at JFK to match the contemporary vibe that the Port Authority debuted in Terminal B at New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) beginning in 2018.
The Gensler-designed Terminal 5 set a new standard for “customer-focused airport design,” as JetBlue President Marty St. George put it in a statement, when it opened in 2008. The New York Times at the time touted its 20 security lanes and plethora of dining options, including sushi and “in an industry rarity, table service in the gate area.”
Many of those amenities have become commonplace at U.S. airports in the years since. Not least at LaGuardia, which was completely rebuilt except for Terminal A, or the Marine Air Terminal. Other airports around the U.S., including Portland International Airport (PDX) in Oregon and San Francisco International Airport (SFO), are now among those lauded as leading in customer-focused design.
The upgrades to Terminal 5 could, if not rebuild the space, at least bring it forward to the 2020s. Local concessions are now expected at major airports. And the parklike feel follows a broader shift in airport design to reduce traveler stress in chaotic terminal spaces.
“We look forward to further enhancing the experience for all who travel through this world-class terminal,” said St. George. “This isn’t just about new dining and shopping—it’s about bringing the energy of New York into the terminal.”
Renderings show greenery like in New York’s parks but without the chaos of, for example, trying to walk across Times Square. New trees and planters will decorate the central atrium in Terminal 5 with blue street lamps similar to those on the city’s many corners and subway entrances.
The update to Terminal 5 also includes more than 30 new pieces of art from New York-based artists, JetBlue said.
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In addition to the work on Terminal 5, JetBlue holds a key role in the development of the new Terminal 6 next door. And, across the JFK horseshoe from Terminal 5, a new Terminal One is under construction.
These projects, plus upgrades to existing Terminal 4 and Terminal 8, make up the $19 billion in investment underway at JFK.
“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,” said Rick Cotton, executive director of the Port Authority that operates JFK.
Fraport manages Terminal 5 at JFK.
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