The Kennedy International Airport (JFK), which cost $4.2 billion to build, held a topping-out ceremony for the first phase of construction of the new Terminal 6 on October 1, with the final steel beam lifted into place. New York Governor Kathy Hochul attended the topping-out ceremony.
According to a statement released by the Governor’s Office of New York, this state-of-the-art terminal will feature spacious, naturally lit public spaces, cutting-edge technology, inspiring public art, and a range of facilities aimed at enhancing the customer experience. This is a significant milestone in the historic $19 billion project aimed at transforming JFK into a world-class global gateway.
The new Terminal 6 will be opened in stages, with the arrivals and departures halls as well as the first five boarding gates expected to be completed by 2026. The construction of Terminal 6 has created 4,000 job opportunities, including 1,800 unionized construction jobs.
Terminal 6 is a key component of the $19 billion JFK airport redevelopment project, which also includes the new Terminal 1 located on the south side of the airport, modernization upgrades and expansions of Terminals 4 and 8, and a brand-new, streamlined airport road network. The entire airport redevelopment project includes $15 billion in private investments and $3.9 billion in funds from the Port Authority for improving roads and infrastructure.
Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Rick Cotton, stated that the topping-out ceremony marks a significant moment as the $19 billion historic project reaches its halfway point. Seven years ago when the JFK Vision Plan was announced, few believed it would be possible to build a new world-class airport while maintaining full flight operations and managing record-breaking passenger volumes. Yet now, it is evident. In just a few years, passengers will experience a beautiful and efficient new airport with a unique sense of place that embodies the spirit of New York.