It’s been the talk of the town for several years and now the stunning, expanded Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is welcoming American Airlines and British Airways as the new home of the two carriers.

Starting this week (Dec 1), customers will enjoy an enhanced travel experience with seamless connections as the two airlines co-locate operations as part of a US$400 million joint investment.

To celebrate the opening, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and British Airways Chairman and CEO Sean Doyle officially unveiled a redesigned check-in area, new gates and world-class lounges.

The upgrade also marks the completion of the first phase of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s redevelopment of the airport.

The move brings British Airways closer to its partner airlines as Terminal 8 becomes home for eight oneworld Alliance carriers.

Iberia also moved into Terminal 8 this week and Japan Airlines expects to move its operations to Terminal 8 in May 2023.

“We are thrilled to welcome our long-standing joint business partner, British Airways, as it joins American and other oneworld partners at Terminal 8,” Isom said.

“As part of our investment to transform JFK into a leading global airport, we are excited to offer customers expanded terminal space, new check-in areas and elegant lounges.”

Key operational enhancements at Terminal 8 include five new widebody gates, four new widebody parking positions, and an expanded and upgraded baggage handling system.

The terminal has also been expanded with approximately 130,000 square feet of additional and refurbished space.

“We announced our joint investment early in 2019 so it is an honor to reach this significant milestone with our business partner, American Airlines,” Doyle said.

“From this week, our customers and colleagues will be able to enjoy all the benefits that Terminal 8 has to offer.”

Premium customers traveling on both airlines will be able to enjoy an elevated travel journey at JFK.

Upon arrival, premium customers will be greeted at the brand new co-branded premium check-in area, which will provide personalized, concierge-style service. Thoughtfully designed architectural elements also define an exclusive check-in space for eligible customers.

Once through security, three distinctive lounges; Chelsea, Soho and Greenwich, combine the best of both brands and provide a refined, welcoming preflight experience for eligible customers based on cabin of travel and loyalty program status.

The two brand new lounges — Chelsea and Soho — have been designed with original high-end finishes, evoking a unique sense of space while elevating the experience and service offered to every guest.

The Chelsea Lounge features a stunning circular champagne bar; a relaxed, yet elegant, fireside lounge; luxury showers; and a dedicated space for la carte dining.

The elegant Soho Lounge features floor-to-ceiling windows with fantastic airside views, while American’s Flagship Lounge will be rebranded as the Greenwich Lounge and will feature a premium wine table, expansive seating and chef-inspired meals.