Opening of Terminal 8 commercial program marks completion of first terminal redevelopment of JFK’s $19 billion transformation
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, American Airlines, ASUR Airports, and Phoenix Infrastructure Group officially celebrated the completion of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 8 transformation with the grand opening of a $125 million commercial program that features more than 60 new dining, retail, Duty Free, and experiential concepts.
The new concepts have been curated to reflect the culture and creative spirit of the airport’s home borough and city. With 20 local dining and retail brands operating alongside global favorites, Terminal 8 provides travelers with a world class passenger experience that is also unique to Queens and to New York City.
The debut of the new commercial program makes Terminal 8 the first completed terminal redevelopment project in the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK. The commercial redesign follows a $400 million expansion and modernization of the terminal, completed in 2022 by American Airlines, which included five new widebody gates, four new widebody parking positions, an expanded and upgraded baggage handling system and 130,000 square feet of new and refurbished space.
“Nearly a decade ago, the Port Authority unveiled its vision plan for the transformation of JFK International Airport into a world class global gateway that would once again be worthy of the city it calls home,” said Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia. “With the completion of Terminal 8 and the debut of its diverse, locally inspired commercial program, we are giving passengers their first glimpse into what a new JFK will represent with a best-in-class experience from curb to gate.”
“Terminal 8 and its new, locally inspired commercial program will create a unique sense of place that elevates the travel experience to what is now an enjoyable part of the journey,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “As we’ve done at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A, at LaGuardia Airport and now at JFK, the Port Authority is making historic investments with our private partners to create a passenger experience that will be among the best in the world.”
“Today marks an exciting milestone for Terminal 8 and for the millions of travelers who pass through JFK each year,” said ASUR Airports VP, JFK, Ian Carter. “We are proud to partner with the Port Authority, American Airlines, and our many suppliers, joint-venture partners and entrepreneurs to deliver a dynamic experience rooted in the heart of New York and built to set a new standard for what’s possible in an airport terminal. By elevating local businesses and expanding opportunities for diverse operators, we are transforming the passenger journey and strengthening the neighborhoods and communities that make New York City.”
A New Era of Dining and Retail at Terminal 8
The centerpiece of the redevelopment is The Boroughs Food Hall by MERA, featuring a mix of New York institutions and emerging local concepts, including Cobblestones, Black Star Bakery & Café, Mito, Naya, Flavortown Kitchen by Guy Fieri, BKLYN BLEND, Bagel Boss, and Le Petit Gourmet.
The newly launched program features the first U.S. airport locations of Eataly and Peach Palace by Momofuku. Terminal 8 also introduces recognizable New York dining names, including Bowery Meat Company and the Black Tap portfolio of brands. Local staples such as Black Tap Singles & Doubles, Black Tap Bar, Tender Crush, Zaro’s Family Bakery, Alidoro, Dos Toros Taqueria, Neir’s Tavern and Golden Krust further strengthen its New York identity. Travelers will also find global favorites including Pret a Manger, Shake Shack, Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Jimmy John’s.
Alongside the food hall, passengers experience a completely reimagined Duty Free environment created by Avolta’s Dufry team. New retail destinations include W. 12th St. Market, Beauty on 5th, The Park @ T8, BKLYN Shopping, and an expanded collection of luxury boutiques featuring Longchamp, Marc Jacobs, Lacoste, BOSS, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Montblanc, premium designer sunglasses through Avolta’s Suncatcher concept plus Pre Loved Luxury offering jewelry, watches, and upcycled high-end leather goods.
The Connoisseur Collection introduces a curated selection of fine spirits, tobacco, and the terminal’s new hidden speakeasy, Blinded Tiger while Bubbles on 5th weaves together fragrances with Champagne and wine.
Retail offerings include I Love NY, Dear NYC, iPorte, five Hudson stores, MAC and M&Ms. The new LEGO store features an extensive selection of LEGO sets and exclusive airport products, along with demonstration tables for hands-on play. Natchie and alchemy., operated by small, local, women- and minority-owned entrepreneurs, opened as part of the small business accelerator program which now includes THE COLLECTIVE, a curated retail concept bringing together independent New York brands. Passengers can also enjoy upgraded amenities through Gameway’s immersive video lounge, the private workspace suites of Minute Suites and three local, woman-owned Currency Exchange locations.
“Being part of the commercial redevelopment of Terminal 8 is a significant opportunity to help shape the next era of the JFK passenger experience,” said North America, Avolta President & CEO, Steve Johnson. “This project reflects a bold vision for modern travel, and we’re proud to contribute through a retail and dining program that elevates local businesses, showcases New York’s culture, and delivers world‑class hospitality. Working alongside the Port Authority, American Airlines, ASUR Airports, and our local partners, we’re committed to creating a terminal that brings lasting value and pride to the community it serves.”
