JetBlue Pushes Back Debut of New JFK Terminal

JetBlue is postponing the opening of its new terminal at New York’s Kennedy Airport until Oct. 22. The airline originally was scheduled to open the new facility in Terminal 5 on Oct. 1. JetBlue currently operates in Terminal 6.

The new Terminal 5 is a remodeling of the landmark TWA terminal designed by Eero Saarinen. The terminal has been vacant since American Airlines acquired TWA in 2001.

The 26-gate facility has a 20-lane security checkpoint, the largest single checkpoint in the U.S., said JetBlue. Passengers exiting security will find a 225-foot-long bench where they can sit and put their shoes back on.

JetBlue said the terminal has much natural light; lounge-like and traditional seating at gates; free Wi-Fi throughout; food-ordering capability at the gates; and a visual paging system that makes for a quieter terminal.

The central Marketplace is located at the nexus of the three concourses and throughways to and from security and baggage claim. The Marketplace is home to a majority of the terminal’s nine full-service restaurants, bars, and cafes; eight quick-serve eateries; three coffee bars; six bars/lounges and 25 retail stores.