JetBlue is getting an all-new $3.9 billion terminal in its 'hometown' of NYC as the airline continues to expand in the US and abroad — see what it will look like

JetBlue is the largest carrier at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, calling itself the city's "Hometown Airline."

I flew on JetBlue's Embraer 190 for the first time and though the aging aircraft lacked the bells and whistles of the carrier's newer Airbus jets, I wouldn't hesitate to book it again

The company has grown quickly since its birth in 1998, creating a strong domestic network and, most recently, expanding its international footprint.

JetBlue revolutionized low-cost travel when it first flew 20 years ago — here's how it beat the odds to become a major US airline

The carrier launched its highly-anticipated nonstop route from New York to London in August and now serves both Heathrow and Gatwick airports from JFK.

I flew on JetBlue's historic first trip to London and saw how low fares and great service will give competitors a run for their money

 

JetBlue's expansion at JFK is a reflection of its commitment to New York, which it has shown since the company opened its flagship Terminal 5 at the airport in 2008.

Source: JetBlue Airways

The airline furthered that loyalty by announcing in 2021 that it would maintain its headquarters in Long Island City after considering a move to Florida.

Source: JetBlue Airways

Now, it is doubling down on its devotion by expanding its JFK presence with an all-new $3.9 billion terminal.

Source: JetBlue Airways

Terminal 6 will break ground in 2022 and connect to JetBlue's existing T5, creating a huge new space for customers to enjoy.

Source: JetBlue Airways

"We set out to support the governor's vision to modernize JFK into a world-class airport," JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said in a press release. "Terminal 5 has been a huge success ... the team putting this project together is setting out to develop a terminal that New Yorkers can be proud of."

Source: JetBlue Airways

The project was initially set to begin in 2020 but was halted by the coronavirus pandemic that plummeted traffic at JFK.

Source: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

However, construction is back on track after the Board of Commissioners for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey approved a new agreement for the terminal in August.

The project calls for the demolition of the aging Terminal 7 that currently houses airlines like British Airways and Alaska Airlines.

Source: JetBlue Airways

The airlines currently operating at T7 will be moving, with BA heading to Terminal 8 where it will operate alongside Oneworld partner American Airlines.

Source: Executive Traveller

According to JetBlue, the over 100,000-square-foot passenger facility will have up to nine new gates and feature "bright and airy check-in halls and arrival spaces designed to enhance the customer experience."

Source: JetBlue Airways

The entire terminal complex, which includes roadways, utilities, an aircraft apron, and a ground transportation center, will cover a total of 1.2 million square feet.

Source: JetBlue Airways

The ground transport center will feature new rideshare and taxi areas to alleviate the traffic congestion at T5.

Source: JetBlue Airways

Moreover, the new facility will offer "commercial dining and retail amenities, lounges, and recreational spaces," though the inclusion of "lounges" is interesting considering JetBlue does not currently maintain any.

Source: JetBlue Airways

However, this leaves the door open to build a lounge for its Mint and loyalty passengers in the future. Particularly, since it has started its long-haul service to London, which caters to business travelers.

I flew JetBlue's new London to New York route in Mint business class. It's a premium leisure traveler's dream but some kinks need to be ironed out.

The new terminal will have the capability to accommodate both widebody and narrowbody jets.

Source: JetBlue Airways

While JetBlue only flies single-aisle planes, this leaves space for American, its strong Northeast Alliance partner, to operate its widebodies at the new T6.

American and JetBlue are expanding their Northeast Alliance despite a looming DoJ lawsuit that could unravel it all

According to the airline, the project will be beneficial to the local economy. JetBlue expects to create over 4,000 direct jobs and generate $6.3 billion in total economic activity.

Source: JetBlue Airways

JetBlue's new T6 comes as JFK plans to revamp Terminal 1 into an all-new $9.5 billion international facility.

Source: New York State

New Terminal One, as the project has been named, will replace the airport's terminals 1, 2, and 3, and offer a new departures hall…

Source: New York State

…arrivals hall…

Source: New York State

…customs hall…

Source: New York State

…and dining, retail, and lounge space.

Source: New York State