Korean Air to Open Stunning Lounge at JFK Terminal One in 2026

Korean Air is preparing to open a massive 16,000 square-foot lounge at JFK’s New Terminal One, setting a new standard for luxury air travel in New York City. This planned opening, set to be unveiled in 2026, shows Korean Air’s commitment to its high-end clientele, further expanding the premium space at New York’s top airport.

A Landmark Partnership

Korean Air’s decision to establish one of its largest lounges outside Seoul Incheon at JFK’s New Terminal One is a strategic investment in one of its most critical global markets.

The partnership between Korean Air and The New Terminal One, announced in May 2023, underscores a shared vision of offering a world-class experience that aligns with JFK’s ongoing $19 billion transformation.

Photo: © The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The New Terminal One is set to be a state-of-the-art, international-only terminal designed to handle the growing demands of modern air travel. As the largest terminal at JFK, once completed, it will house 23 widebody gates and handle over 16 million passengers annually by 2030.

Korean Air’s prominent position within this terminal signals the airline’s commitment to enhancing its service offering for business and leisure travelers.

Celebrating 45 Years at JFK

As Korean Air celebrated its 45th anniversary of operations at JFK in 2024, the airline reflected on its legacy of connecting Korea and the United States.

It all began on March 29, 1979, when flight KE008 took off from Gimpo Airport, with a brief stopover in Anchorage before landing in New York. This inaugural flight marked the beginning of what would become a vital link between the two nations, fostering economic ties and facilitating cultural exchange.

Photo: Korean Air, Boeing 777-300ER. Courtesy of Kevin Ortiz / Unsplash

Over the decades, Korean Air has expanded its services to meet the growing demand for transpacific travel. By 1986, the airline was operating ten flights a week between Seoul and New York, and today, it operates 14 round-trip flights weekly.

This route has become the airline’s second most popular in the United States, with more than 400,000 passengers flying between Seoul and New York in 2023 alone.

To commemorate its 45th anniversary, Korean Air hosted a special event at JFK, where it recognized the 45th passenger checked in on flight KE082 with a round-trip business class ticket between Seoul and New York.

Photo: Boeing 787-10, Prestige Class 2.0. Courtesy of Korean Air

JFK Airport has long been a cornerstone of Korean Air’s international network. As the airline continues to expand its global footprint, New York remains a critical hub for connecting East and West.

The decision to invest in a significant presence at The New Terminal One clearly indicates Korean Air’s long-term strategy to maintain and grow its influence in the transpacific market.

The New Korean Air Lounge

The new Korean Air lounge at JFK’s New Terminal One promises to be a game-changer in airport luxury. Although no renders or previews have been released by the airline, the lounge will be designed with an eye for detail. The lounge will offer panoramic views of the airfield, creating a serene environment for passengers to relax before their flights.

The lounge’s location at the end of the east pier ensures direct boarding access, adding unparalleled convenience for travelers.

Photo: © The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

One of the lounge’s standout features will be its show kitchen and bar, where guests can enjoy a diverse selection of freshly prepared culinary delights.

For those traveling in First and Prestige Class and elite frequent flyers, the lounge will serve as a shelter of comfort and sophistication. The design of the lounge will incorporate premium amenities, advanced technology, and expansive, light-filled spaces, all intended to enhance the pre-flight experience.

As David Pacey, Korean Air’s Executive Vice President & Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges, stated, the new lounge will offer an “elevated experience” that aligns with the airline’s reputation for excellence.

JFK’s New Terminal One

The New Terminal One at JFK is more than just a construction project; it’s a vision for the future of air travel. As part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s broader initiative to transform JFK into a world-class airport, the terminal will set new design, service, and sustainability standards.

Scheduled to open its first phase in 2026, The New Terminal One will feature expansive departures and arrivals halls, 14 widebody gates, and an array of amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience.

Photo: © The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

By 2030, when the terminal is fully completed, it will cover 2.6 million square feet, replacing the existing Terminal 1 and the former Terminals 2 and 3.

What makes The New Terminal One particularly notable is its focus on sustainability and future readiness. The terminal will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to streamline operations and improve passenger flow, while its design will emphasize natural light and open spaces.

A New Era of Air Travel at JFK

As JFK Airport undergoes its transformation into a world-class gateway, Korean Air is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of luxury travel. The new lounge at The New Terminal One is a symbol of the airline’s commitment to excellence and its vision for the future.

With 45 years of history at JFK and a bright future ahead, Korean Air is not just celebrating a milestone but setting the stage for the next chapter in its journey. As passengers step into the new lounge in 2026, they will be greeted not only by panoramic views and premium amenities but also by the legacy of an airline that has consistently delivered on its promise of excellence.