Qatar Airways Opens its First US Lounge with Move to JFK’s New Terminal One
The Gulf carrier strengthens its New York presence with an exclusive 1,400-square-meter facility and centralizes its operations in the airport's newest terminal.
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Qatar Airways is cementing its position in one of the world's most competitive aviation markets by officially relocating its operations to the New Terminal One (NTO) at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This strategic move is accompanied by the opening of its first-ever proprietary lounge in the United States, a facility of approximately 1,400 square meters (around 15,000 square feet) designed to elevate the experience for its premium passengers.
The shift from Terminal 8, its home since arriving in New York in 2008, to the state-of-the-art NTO allows the airline to offer a more cohesive product. The goal is to align its acclaimed onboard experience with an equally high-caliber ground service, positioning New York as a cornerstone of its global network.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, expressed the company's excitement for this new chapter. He stated that "at Qatar Airways, we are eagerly looking forward to launching our operations at the New Terminal One at JFK Airport and welcoming Qatar Airways Business Class passengers to our first exclusive lounge in the United States." According to the executive, this cutting-edge facility "will offer an enhanced experience at every touchpoint and will complement our industry-leading Business Class travel experience."
Key Summary: Qatar Airways' New Bet at JFK
What changed? Qatar Airways moved its flights from Terminal 8 to the new, modern New Terminal One.
What's the main highlight? The opening of its first proprietary lounge in the U.S., exclusive to its Business Class passengers and eligible oneworld partners.
How big is it? The lounge spans approximately 1,400 square meters (15,000 sq. ft.).
What's a key benefit? It offers direct access from the lounge to the boarding gates.
A Space Designed for Exclusivity
The new Qatar Airways lounge is conceived to offer both comfort and functionality. One of its main attractions is direct gate access, which simplifies the boarding process for travelers.
Inside the facility, passengers can enjoy a premium selection of food and beverages, along with a variety of spaces tailored to different needs:
VIP check-in services.
Relaxation zones.
Private prayer rooms.
Children's play areas.
Duty-free shopping options.
All of this is set within the modern architecture and bright spaces that characterize the New Terminal One, an infrastructure noted for its advanced technology aimed at optimizing passenger flow and the overall travel experience. Al-Meer added that "from exclusive airport transfers to VIP check-in and the best shopping and dining options, premium passengers will enjoy the world’s best service at the New Terminal One."
A Strategic Move in North America
The Qatari airline, a member of the oneworld alliance, currently serves 11 destinations in the United States, carrying over three million passengers annually in this market. From JFK, it operates 18 weekly flights that connect through its hub at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha to more than 170 destinations worldwide.
Investing in a proprietary lounge, rather than relying on third-party or partner facilities, represents a statement of intent. It underscores the importance of the North American market and allows Qatar Airways to control every detail of the customer journey—a key differentiator in the fierce competition for business and high-value leisure travelers passing through New York.
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