Terminal velocity

Travel might have slowed down for passengers in the last few years, but development on airport infrastructure has been full steam ahead

- TAMSIN COCKS

According to market research firm GlobalData, there is currently US$700 billion worth of airport construction projects under way around the world. The Asia-Pacific region claims the highest levels of development, with US$240 billion worth of projects, followed by the Middle East and Africa (US$200 billion), the Americas (US$150 billion) and Europe (US$130 billion). Here we look at some major airport upgrades around the globe.

John F. Kennedy International airport, JFK

New York’s biggest airport is undergoing a huge revamp totalling US$19 billion that will create four main terminals with a north and south hub. The first changes were unveiled last year, with British Airways moving into a revamped Terminal 8 alongside American Airlines and launching the co-branded Bridge Bar in the Greenwich Lounge (see businesstraveller.com). T8 will eventually host eight Oneworld carriers, with Japan Airlines expected to move this month.

The US$1.5 billion expansion of Terminal 4 is due to be finished this year, and has become the consolidated home for Delta’s operations. A new 1,300 sqm Sky Club on Concourse A will open this summer, followed by an exclusive Delta One Club in 2024 for business class passengers.