British Airways unveils US$65m redesign plans for JFK’s terminal 7

British Airways has revealed details of its £52m (US$65m) redesign of New York’s John F Kennedy (JFK) International Airport’s Terminal 7.

The redesign at JFK will be completed by the end of 2018 and is to include a spacious, modern new check-in concourse and a separate Club World and First area. The space will draw inspiration from The First Wing, which recently opened at Heathrow Terminal 5, and the new premium check-in area at Gatwick’s South Terminal.

Business class, First, and Gold and Silver executive club card holders will benefit from renovated lounges that will have more space and restaurant-style pre-flight dining. The Concorde Room, which is available for first customers, will also undergo a refresh.

Abigail Comber, head of customer at British Airways, said, “We are currently working behind-the-scenes with top architects and designers to create a beautiful new space for our customers to relax, dine and work in before they take off. The new environment at Terminal 7 is designed for our customers to enjoy a smoother, faster and more relaxed airport experience. This will involve significantly increasing the number of people we can seat for in-flight dining, re-styling the space and adding new lighting, bars and furniture.

“We recently opened our new lounge at Boston [Massachusetts] and next year we’ll be turning our attention to Aberdeen [UK] and Rome [Italy]. Geneva [Switzerland] will also be expanded and further investment is planned in San Francisco [California], Chicago [Illinois], Johannesburg [South Africa] and Manchester [UK].”

The investment will also include a premium check-in zone with a fast-track security lane, New York-style food and beverage options, a renovated retail environment and new gate seating with additional power outlets.