New York’s JFK Airport is present process a serious redevelopment, and that features American Airways’ Terminal 8. British Airways is within the means of transferring to JFK Terminal 8, and as a part of this we’re seeing the introduction of some new lounges.
On this publish I wished to cowl all the small print of what we all know thus far in regards to the new lounges, as they’re anticipated to open as of Thursday, December 1, 2022.
The fundamentals of JFK Terminal 8 adjustments
Simply to recap the very fundamentals, $400 million has been invested to redevelop JFK Terminal 8. Among the many adjustments, this consists of 5 new vast physique gates, 4 new vast physique hardstand parking positions, an enhanced baggage dealing with system, and 130,000 sq. ft of latest and renovated terminal area, together with new facilities and lounges.
For what it’s value, the distant stands will allegedly solely be used to park planes which are on the bottom for an prolonged time period, fairly than for boarding or deplaning. That’s excellent news.
As a part of this redevelopment, British Airways will solely be working out of Terminal 8 as of December 1, 2022. American and British Airways have a transatlantic three way partnership, so that is implausible information, since it’ll make connections between the 2 airways far more seamless.
American has been underutilizing Terminal 8, and Terminal 7 can even ultimately be demolished as a part of the airport’s redevelopment, so British Airways’ transfer is required for that purpose as properly.
American & British Airways new premium check-in facility JFK
With American and British Airways co-locating at Terminal 8, we’ll shortly see a brand new co-branded premium check-in facility open, providing “customized, concierge-style service for top-tier friends.” This replaces American’s former Flagship First Examine-in area, which closed in early 2022 to be able to permit for this building.
There might be totally different counters relying in your standing and/or which class of service you’re flying in.
American & British Airways new premium lounges JFK
From a passenger expertise standpoint, the most important change might be made to lounges. As of December 1, 2022, Terminal 8 will characteristic three new distinctive lounges, which may have the capability to accommodate as much as 1,000 prospects at a time. These lounges might be run by each American and British Airways, so you possibly can anticipate parts from each airways.
The lounges are named Chelsea, Soho, and Greenwich, which is type of sensible, since these locations might be present in each New York and London. Let’s cowl what we all know thus far about these new lounges.
Chelsea Lounge New York JFK
The Chelsea Lounge would be the new most unique lounge within the terminal, and it’ll substitute American’s Flagship First Eating facility. It is going to be in a special location than present lounges within the terminal. The Chelsea Lounge will characteristic an all-new champagne bar, hearth lounge, luxurious showers, and an a la carte eating room.
The Chelsea Lounge might be open to:
- British Airways firstclass passengers
- American Airways Flagship First passengers (together with on eligible transcon flights)
- American Airways Flagship Enterprise Plus passengers (it is a particular bundle that may be bought)
- American Airways Concierge Key members on Flagship itineraries
- British Airways Gold Visitor Record members
Dare I say that based mostly on the couple of images which were launched thus far, this seems like a downgrade in comparison with Flagship First Eating? There’s no pure mild, and the decor simply seems… okay? Admittedly Flagship First Eating wouldn’t have been in a position to deal with British Airways passengers as properly, however nonetheless…
Soho Lounge New York JFK
The Soho Lounge would be the second most unique lounge within the terminal. It is going to be in a special location than present lounges within the terminal, and might be subsequent to the Chelsea Lounge. The Soho Lounge will characteristic sweeping airside views, a wine bar, a cocktail lounge, a library, and a buffet.
The Soho Lounge might be open to:
- American AAdvantage Govt Platinum and Platinum Professional members on Flagship itineraries
- oneworld Emerald members with overseas packages on any identical day oneworld itinerary
- American Airways Concierge Key members on non-Flagship itineraries
Greenwich Lounge New York JFK
The present American Flagship Lounge might be rebranded because the Greenwich Lounge. We’re informed to anticipate a premium wine desk, expansive seating, and chef-inspired meals — it appears like not an entire lot might be altering right here in any other case in comparison with the previous Flagship Lounge. It additionally stays to be seen what is finished with the previous area of Flagship First Eating, since that may not be operational.
The Greenwich Lounge might be open to:
- British Airways enterprise class passengers
- American Airways Flagship Enterprise passengers (together with on eligible transcon flights)
- American AAdvantage Platinum members on Flagship itineraries
- oneworld Sapphire members with overseas packages on any identical day oneworld itinerary
Backside line
British Airways is within the means of transferring to American Airways’ Terminal 8 at JFK. That transfer might be full as of December 1, 2022, and you may anticipate all these new lounges to even be operational as of that date.
We’ll see the opening of the brand new Chelsea and Soho Lounges, which might be open to firstclass passengers and oneworld Emerald members. Then the prevailing Flagship Lounge might be rebranded because the Greenwich Lounge, and might be open to enterprise class passengers and oneworld Sapphire members.
What do you make of those new Terminal 8 JFK lounges?
