Qatar Airways to Move to JFK’s New Terminal One by 2026, Opens First U.S. Lounge

New York is one of the world’s busiest gateways and a prime destination for Qatar Airways. From 2026, the airline will relocate its operations at JFK to the brand-new Terminal One and, for the first time, open a proprietary lounge in the United States.

Overview: Qatar Airways Relocates to JFK’s New Terminal One

Qatar Airways began operations between Doha and New York JFK international airport way back in 2008. Since then it has been using the airport's terminal 8 for its operations. However, that will change in 2026 when the carrier will relocate at the newly renovated Terminal 1 at New York JFK.

Moving terminal and having its own space in the form of a airport lounge means the airline will cater better to its best paying customers. Additionally, the opening of such a facility is an important status symbol along with a fantastic marketing tool to leverage.

What Is the New Terminal One at JFK?

New York JFK has been for many years now a pain point for the city. It has, over the years, consistently been listed among America's worst airports. That eventually triggered the New York and New Jersey port authority to invest heavily on its airport infrastructure.

LaGuardia and JFK are now undergoing modernization projects to bring them up to the standards you'd expect from a world class city as New York.

In JFK's case that means completely renovating many of its terminals and, more specifically to this post, the construction of the new Terminal One. The new Terminal One at New York JFK airport will occupy the area previously covered by Terminals 1, 2, and 3. A mega project which will open in two phases, the first in 2026 with the opening of the new departure and arrivals hall along with 14 new gates. By 2030 the project will be completed with the opening of another 9 gates bringing the grand total to 23.

Qatar Airways’ First U.S. Lounge: Size and Amenities

What makes this a special event, and a milestone for Qatar Airways is the fact that this is the first ever proprietary lounge in the US. As you might imagine the US is a key strategic market for Qatar Airways. The airline feeds off of Indian traffic directed to a multitude of destinations among which the US is one of the most booked.

One feature which is often present in Emirates lounges will appear in Qatar Airways' first US lounge. That is direct access to the gate from the lounge itself. That means not having to make your way through the crowded areas and enjoy direct priority access. Something that might sound small but makes the entire boarding experience a lot less stressful.

As for size and amenities, Qatar Airways new JFK Terminal One lounge will cover 15,000 square feet offering all you can imagine from a premium lounge from one of the world's leading airlines. Those amenities include:

• VIP check-in services
• relaxation zones
• prayer rooms
• children’s play areas
• premium dining options
• duty-free shopping

Why Qatar Airways Chose New York and JFK

The reason for choosing New York JFK as the airport to host the first US lounge is rather simple and intuitive. Firstly New York is Qatar Airways' prime and most served destination in the US. The airline operates a total of 18 weekly flights on the Doha to New York JFK route, more than any other US city. Additionally it is an exceptional way to get visibility in what still remains in many ways the gateway city to the US.

Quotes from Qatar Airways and New Terminal One Leadership

Qatar Airways emphasised that the move to JFK’s new Terminal One and the opening of its first U.S. lounge will redefine the passenger journey.

Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive:
“Our operations at New Terminal One will allow us to deliver an enhanced experience at every touchpoint — from check-in to boarding. With our first dedicated lounge in the United States, Qatar Airways is reaffirming its commitment to setting new standards for Business Class and premium travel worldwide.”

Jennifer Aument, CEO of New Terminal One:
“We are thrilled to have Qatar Airways as part of New Terminal One at JFK. Their decision to bring their first U.S. lounge here highlights the terminal’s role as a world-class gateway, offering travellers modern design, seamless connections, and premium amenities.”