Opening of Terminal 8 Commercial Program Marks Completion of First Terminal Redevelopment of JFK’s $19 Billion Transformation
More than 60 new Dining and Retail Concessions Include Renowned Local Brands to Create a Unique New York Sense of Place
Local Businesses Participating in Terminal 8’s Commercial Program Include Five Graduates of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions
Video and Images of Reimagined Terminal 8 Available Here
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, American Airlines, ASUR Airports, and Phoenix Infrastructure Group today celebrated the completion of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s (JFK) 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 that have been curated to reflect the culture, tastes 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.
Today’s 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 into the global gateway the region deserves. 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.”
“Everything we do at Terminal 8 is rooted in one simple goal: making our customers’ journeys more enjoyable and more comfortable from the moment they arrive,” said American Airlines Vice President for Corporate Real Estate Amanda Zhang. “This commercial transformation builds on our significant investment in Terminal 8 and reflects our relentless focus on improving the customer experience. By bringing together iconic New York brands, modern amenities, and thoughtful spaces, we’re creating an experience that feels welcoming, intuitive, and worthy of the customers who fly with us every day while also supporting local businesses, jobs, and the communities that make New York such a special place to travel through and call home.”
“Today marks an exciting milestone for Terminal 8 and for the millions of travelers who pass through JFK each year,” said ASUR Airports Vice President for 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.”
“As a minority‑owned infrastructure firm ourselves, Phoenix Infrastructure Group is proud to help deliver a concessions program that expands real opportunity for local, diverse, and emerging businesses,” said Phoenix Infrastructure Group CEO and Founder Jeremy Ebie. “We are proud to deliver this terminal redevelopment with our partners ASUR Airports in sharing a joint commitment to people, place, and opportunity. Airports are among the most dynamic infrastructure assets and economic drivers a community can have, powering economic growth, connecting people to places, and creating meaningful development beyond the terminal. JFK is a tremendous asset, and it’s rewarding to see this transformation not only within Terminal 8 but also throughout the Queens community.”
Deep Commitment to Creating the Best Concessions Program
To build a best-in-class concessions program, the Port Authority and ASUR conducted outreach with local elected officials and community partners to attract local and diverse businesses. ASUR increased participation by pairing local operators with leading brands and partners, resulting in a top‑tier concessions program built around proven, high‑quality brands and operators, including leading national concepts, best‑of‑New‑York favorites, and outstanding minority‑owned businesses.”
Five graduates of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions, including the minority owners behind the iconic BKLYN BLEND, Rincón Salvadoreño, Harisa Hot Honey, Beautiful Amore Skincare and the historic Neir’s Tavern, now join Terminal 8 through licensing deals, product placement and joint venture partnerships. Their involvement helps ensure a concessions program that reflects the surrounding communities and expands economic opportunity.
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 beloved 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 some of New York’s most recognizable 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.
“Terminal 8’s transformation is a proud moment for Queens,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “This new addition introduces travelers to the energy and distinct character of our borough from the moment they arrive at JFK airport. Highlighting local dining and retail vendors not only enriches the travel experience for passengers but also positions our small businesses to succeed on the global stage.”
“JFK Airport’s Terminal 8 is our borough’s and our city’s gateway to the world, and the completion of its new commercial program is a major milestone that is well worth celebrating,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “The now fully transformed Terminal 8 is a truly vibrant and welcoming aviation hub that offers outstanding and authentic Queens-centric and New York City-themed dining and shopping experiences to all who walk through its doors. These amazing experiences enable visitors from all over the world to enjoy the vitality and excitement of Queens and all of New York City as soon as they step off their planes. My deepest thanks go to all those whose hard work and dedication have made this transformation possible, especially to the Queens-based businesses and workers who have contributed so much to this important project.”
“The completion of Terminal 8’s commercial program is a major milestone not just for JFK, but for the communities that surround it,” said New York State Senator Leroy Comrie. “This investment brings real opportunity to Queens, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and showcasing the culture and energy that make New York unique. As we continue the transformation of JFK into a world-class gateway, it’s critical that our neighborhoods see and feel the benefits. I’m proud to support a project that uplifts our local economy while improving the travel experience for millions who pass through our borough each year.”
“JFK is more than an airport; it is the economic heartbeat of Southeast Queens,” said New York State Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman. “By prioritizing local, diverse, and minority-owned businesses — including graduates of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions — Terminal 8 is setting a new standard for equity in aviation. I am proud to see iconic local brands like BKLYN BLEND and Neir’s Tavern taking center stage at this world-class gateway. This project ensures that as our airport grows, our community’s entrepreneurs and small business owners grow right alongside it.”
“With this investment, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is not only elevating the passenger experience, but — more importantly — creating real opportunities for Queens-based small businesses, including minority- and women-owned enterprises, to grow and compete on a global stage,” said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “By intentionally incorporating local brands and diverse operators into Terminal 8’s commercial program, the Port Authority is ensuring that the economic benefits of this redevelopment are shared with the communities that make Queens the most dynamic and diverse borough in the world. The Queens Chamber deeply appreciates the Port Authority’s continued investment in our borough and its commitment to expanding opportunity for our local small businesses.”
“The world is lucky to have more ways to get to Queens! Terminal 8 is a shining, leading example of the transformation happening at JFK, and I’m overjoyed that this will become a new, beautiful “front door” to our borough, our city, and our region,” said Ben Guttmann, Executive Director of the Queens Economic Development Corporation. “These millions of travelers will bring with them billions of dollars of economic activity – and thousands of jobs in the process. Congratulations to the entire team that has made this terminal possible.”
“Congratulations to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and all the partners involved in the completion of Terminal 8. This tremendous accomplishment has set a new standard for airports around the globe,” said Justin Rodgers, president & CEO, Greater Jamaica Development Corporation and Co-Chair of the JFK Business Development Committee Advisory Council. “The redevelopment of JFK will be a boon for Southeast Queens and the Institute of Concessions provides a tremendous opportunity for local small businesses to share the benefits. Bolstering disadvantaged businesses is at the core of Greater Jamaica’s mission and we are proud to create opportunities for them.”
“Congratulations to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, American Airlines and ASUR Airports on the completion of their $125 million commercial redevelopment at JFK Terminal 8,” said Kevin Alexander, President & CEO of Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation and Co-Chair of JFK Advisory Council’s Career & Workforce Development Committee. “The results of the partnership are undeniable with state-of-the art amenities, concierge services, 60 new dining facilities that includes 20 local dining and retail businesses, and five local businesses pipelined via the JFK Institute of Concessions. The Terminal 8 experience will captivate travelers with a world class travel experience with a local flavor.”
“We’re proud to be part of the Terminal 8 program and to help shape an experience that truly reflects the energy of New York and the expectations of today’s traveler,” said MERA USA President Rafael Aguirre. “At MERA, we focus on delivering a seamless passenger journey — where quality, speed, and thoughtful design come together to make travel more enjoyable. This milestone is not just about opening doors, but about elevating the overall airport experience for the millions of passengers who pass through Terminal 8 each year.”
“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 Avolta North America 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.”
“JFK Terminal 8 is setting a revolutionary precedent by anchoring the future of global travel in building a local economic legacy for all,” said Historic Neir’s Tavern CEO Loycent Gordon. “For a business like Neir’s Tavern, which has served Queens since 1829, this partnership is more than an expansion. Our partnership is proof of concept and we’re leading the way for how infrastructure projects can intentionally uplift small businesses and families for a thriving and inclusive economy.”
“Being part of Terminal 8 is a powerful milestone for BKLYN BLEND,” said BKLYN BLEND Founding Member Keishon Warren. “We began as a community-driven concept in Brooklyn and have evolved into a platform that promotes health, culture, and economic opportunity. We are grateful to partner with MERA to bring BKLYN BLEND to JFK, allowing us to share our mission of serving nutrition with kindness on a global stage while continuing to invest in the communities that built us.”
About American Airlines
American Airlines is a premium global airline connecting more of the U.S. to the world. With roots tracing back to an air mail carrier in the Midwestern United States in 1926, American now operates more than 6,000 daily flights to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries and serves more than 200 million customers annually. Powered by a proud and talented team of 130,000 aviation professionals, American’s team lives out the airline’s purpose of caring for people on life’s journey every day.
The world’s largest airline proudly celebrates its centennial year in 2026, reaching a milestone that reflects a century of innovation and the Forever ForwardSM spirit that changed the industry and the world. American introduced the first scheduled air cargo service, the first airport lounge and the first airline loyalty program and continues to reinvent the customer experience today. The airline is also a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe.
Get the latest about American at news.aa.com and @AmericanAir.
About ASUR
ASUR is a leading international airport operator with a portfolio of concessions to operate, maintain, and develop 16 airports in the Americas. These comprise nine airports in southeast Mexico, including Cancun Airport, the most important tourist destination in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America, and six airports in northern Colombia, including José María Córdova International Airport (Rionegro), the second busiest airport in Colombia.
About ASUR Airports
A recently acquired division of leading international airport operator ASUR, ASUR Airports delivers seamless journeys by creating uplifting retail travel experiences that put local business and community stakeholders at the heart of everything. Partnering with airports and airlines, across some of the world’s busiest airports, including Los Angeles International (LAX), Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), and John F. Kennedy International (JFK), ASUR Airports has a proven track record of delivering elevated travel experiences that drive commercial revenue above U.S. benchmarks. Learn more at ASURairports.com.
Transforming JFK Into a World-Class Global Gateway
In January 2017, the JFK Vision Plan was announced to transform JFK into the world-class airport that New Yorkers deserve. The vision plan provides a strategic framework for the Port Authority and its partners to completely redevelop, modify and expand existing facilities and infrastructure. The $400 million expansion of Terminal 8, led by American Airlines, which operates the terminal, was completed in November 2022. An additional $125 million investment in the redevelopment of Terminal 8’s commercial program is complete. The $9.5 billion New Terminal One broke ground in September 2022. A new $4.2 billion Terminal 6, which will connect seamlessly with Terminal 5 to create an anchor terminal on the airport’s north side, broke ground in February 2023. The $1.5 billion expansion of Terminal 4, led by Delta Air Lines and JFK International Air Terminal (JFKIAT), was completed in 2024.
The transformation of JFK involves four new public private partnerships entered into by the Port Authority. The Port Authority’s $3.9 billion public investment in JFK Infrastructure, including a new and simplified roadway network, a new ground transportation center, utility upgrades and airside improvements has leveraged $15 billion in private investment by the private partners for new and modernized terminals.
