Terminal Velocity

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

-  TAMSLN COCKS

According to market research firm GlobalData, there is currently US$700 billion worth of airport construction projects underway 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.

Work began on Terminal 6 in February, which will connect seamlessly to the current Terminal 5.

Passengers can expect bright and spacious arrivals, local artwork and more than 9,000 sqm of updated shopping and dining options.

Advanced technology will update passenger touchpoints, including automated TSA security lanes and biometric controls, plus a new taxi plaza. In addition to JetBlue, the improved terminal will be home to the Lufthansa Group.