JFK Terminal 8 (T8) Airlines, Services, Amenities, and Terminal Map

New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport is more than just a transportation hub, it’s a symbol of the city’s global connectivity. Among its six passenger terminals, Terminal 8 holds a unique and prominent position. Whether you’re a business traveler, a family vacationing, or a student, Terminal 8 is likely to be part of your journey. Knowing how it works, how to navigate it, where to relax, where to eat, and what to expect can take a lot of stress out of your travel day. In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through everything JFK Terminal 8 has to offer, how it fits into JFK’s broader infrastructure, and what makes it a standout terminal not just at JFK but in the entire U.S. airport system. This also includes the services and amenities the terminal offers, the airlines it operates, and many more. 

Quick Overview of JFK Terminal 8

Terminal 8 is the largest terminal at JFK Airport in terms of square footage. It was originally constructed as a dedicated terminal for American Airlines, but over the years, it has evolved into a shared space for multiple airlines. Following a multi-phase, $400 million redevelopment completed in 2023, Terminal 8 is now a modern, well-integrated space with advanced gate systems, passenger lounges, expanded security areas, and updated amenities designed to improve the passenger experience from start to finish. Terminal 8 JFK includes 

• Total area of over 2 million square feet.
• Gates: 29 operational gates (including wide-body gates).
• Check-in areas: Dedicated zones for domestic, international, and priority passengers.
• Concourses: Concourse B and Concourse C
• Lounges: 3 premium Oneworld lounges
• Parking: Closest to the Red Garage
• Public access: Served by the JFK AirTrain, local buses, and taxis

Airlines Operating at Terminal 8, JFK

Terminal 8 is the hub for American Airlines, which controls the majority of flight operations here. Alongside it, many members of the Oneworld Alliance also operate from this terminal, thanks to a joint transatlantic business agreement and improved infrastructure following the expansion. Key Airlines at Terminal 8:

• American Airlines (Domestic and International hub)
• British Airways
• Qatar Airways
• Iberia
• Finnair
• Japan Airlines
• Royal Jordanian Airlines
• Level

These airlines offer a blend of domestic, transatlantic, and long-haul international services to Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia. The Oneworld partnership allows for coordinated schedules, baggage transfers, and frequent flyer benefits across member airlines. Passengers are advised to always check their airline and terminal before traveling, as terminals may vary, as JFK periodically shifts gate and terminal assignments for operational needs.

Terminal 8 Layout and Navigation

Despite its large footprint, Terminal 8 is laid out in a way that minimizes confusion and maximizes ease of movement. Terminal 8 has a layout and design as:

• Concourse B: This is the terminal’s older section, still handling most American Airlines domestic flights, short-haul international flights, and some partner airline operations.
• Concourse C: The newly developed concourse extension is primarily designed for long-haul international flights. This is where larger wide-body aircraft are accommodated, including British Airways A380s and Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777s.

Connecting Between Concourses

There is a secure airside connector between Concourse B and Concourse C. That means you don’t have to clear security again when transferring between domestic and international flights, which is a huge benefit for connecting passengers. Here’s how you can find your way.

• Digital displays are updated in real-time for flight departures, gate assignments, and service changes.
• Clear signage in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Chinese, and more) helps guide non-native speakers through the terminal.
• Floor lighting and color-coding also assist with navigation to gates, security, and amenities.

Get everything you need to know about JFK Terminal 7 – from available services and amenities to a detailed terminal map.

Services and Amenities available at JFK Terminal 8

There are several advanced and innovative services available at JFK Airport Terminal 8. Here’s about some of them.

Check-In, Bag Drop, and Security

• Terminal 8 has multiple check-in counters, including main economy check-in, priority and flagship check-in, self-service kiosks, and dedicated counters for British Airways and partner airlines. For premium travelers, the Flagship First Check-In provides a private, quiet experience with personal assistance and expedited processing.
• Baggage Drop-Off has various options, like standard drop-off and priority bag drop. Standard drop-off is located directly behind the main check-in counters. Priority bag drop is available to Flagship Business and First Class passengers.
• Security Checkpoints include TSA PreCheck Lanes, Standard security, and priority lanes. Wait times at JFK can vary greatly depending on time of day, but Terminal 8 generally handles peak traffic well, especially after recent renovations that increased the number of screening lanes. The passengers can use the MyTSA app or JFK Airport’s website to monitor real-time wait times before they arrive.

Lounges

Thanks to the joint efforts of American Airlines and British Airways, Terminal 8 now offers three elevated lounges, each designed for different traveler types based on cabin class and frequent flyer status. Here’s information about JFK terminal 8 lounges.

Chelsea Lounge (First Class Only)

• This lounge is exclusive to Flagship First and British Airways First passengers.
• The lounge provides features like, full-service champagne bar, fine dining with à la carte menus, private shower suites, personal seating pods, and many more. 
• The ambiance of the lounge is ultra-luxurious, quiet, and designed for privacy.

Soho Lounge (Business Class and Elite Tier)

• The lounge is available for Flagship Business Plus, Emerald-tier Oneworld, and BA Club World passengers.
• Its features include a gourmet buffet and premium drinks, ample workspaces and semi-private seating, showers, and rest zones.
• The ambiance of the lounge is upscale and functional, which is ideal for work and relaxation.

Greenwich Lounge (Oneworld Sapphire and Business)

• Entry-level lounge access for many Oneworld and American elite members.
• The lounges offer features like light snacks, banasta coffee, self-service drinks, comfortable open seating, reading materials, and basic business amenities. 

Each lounge is accessible post-security and well-signposted throughout both concourses. Lounge hours generally follow the international flight schedule but are busiest between 3 PM and 10 PM.

Dining and Food Options

Terminal 8 has various food and dining options that cater to all preferences, from quick snacks to upscale meals. Here’s information about the JFK Terminal 8 food​ options available.

Quick Service Options

• Dunkin’: Coffee and baked goods
• Starbucks: Specialty beverages and breakfast options
• Cibo Express: Grab-and-go sandwiches, sushi, and snacks
• Auntie Anne’s: Pretzels and quick bites.

JFK Airport Terminal 8 restaurants​ and dining options

• Bobby Van’s Steakhouse: Full-service restaurant known for quality steaks and wine selection
• New York Sports Bar: A casual American menu with flat-screen TVs and beer on tap
• La Tapenade Mediterranean Café: Great for fresh wraps, hummus plates, and health-conscious choices.

Mobile Ordering: Travelers can use JFK’s mobile food ordering system via QR codes located around the terminal or through the Grab app to order meals in advance and pick them up without waiting in line.

Shopping Options

Terminal 8 of JFK offers a range of shopping options, retail stores, duty-free, and more. 

Duty-Free Americas includes perfumes, tobacco, liquor, and premium chocolates, which are available to international travelers only. Terminal 8 shopping options also include electronics, headphones, chargers, and travel gadgets. The Hudson News offers books, magazines, snacks, and travel items. Also, Brooks Brothers provides business wear and accessories for last-minute wardrobe needs. It is also to be noted that prices at airport shops are higher than in the city plan if you’re on a tight budget.

Accessibility and Special Assistance

JFK Airport Terminal 8 has made significant changes and arrangements to ensure inclusivity and comfort for passengers with disabilities and mobility needs.

• Wheelchair services are available at Terminal 8, which can be booked through any airline
• Elevators and ramps are available throughout the concourses.
• TTY phones and visual paging systems.
• Assistance animals welcome (with designated relief areas).
• Quiet zones for neurodivergent travelers or those with sensory sensitivities.

However, it is recommended to notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure if you require any special services, so that they can make necessary arrangements. 

Ground Transportation and Parking

JFK Terminal 8 parking​ and transportation services include 

• AirTrain JFK, which is free between terminals and connects to the NYC subway and LIRR at Jamaica and Howard Beach.
• Taxis and Rideshares are one of the transportation services. The taxi stands are available right outside JFK Terminal 8 arrivals​. On Terminal 8, app-based rideshare pickup zones are marked. Passengers are advised to expect surge pricing during peak hours. 
• Public Transit includes MTA Buses, whose routes are Q3, Q6, Q10, and B15, all stop near Terminal 8. The routes also include Subway connection via AirTrain to E, J, Z, and A trains.
• Other parking options include Red Garage, which is closest to Terminal 8 JFK. General parking rates for short-term are $6 for the first hour, and for long-term (daily): ~$35/day.
• A parking slot can also be booked online through the JFK Airport parking portal.

Hotels Near Terminal 8

Need a place to stay nearby? Here are the top hotel recommendations. 

Additional Passenger Services at JFK Terminal 8

Terminal 8 JFK provides a range of additional services and amenities for passengers’ convenience and comfort. Here’s about some of the additional services. 

• Free high-speed Wi-Fi services are available throughout the terminal 
• Family restrooms and charging areas provide convenience. 
• There are pet relief zones with turf and waste stations
• Medical Services like first-aid and emergency response are available 24/7
• There are Information booths with multilingual agents
• Additionally, passengers can also find water bottle refill stations, currency exchange, and ATMs near most gates and seating areas.

Find the nearest route to reach John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Map

The JFK Terminal 8 map will help you reach your destination seamlessly. The map provides the shortest routes, traffic-free ways, and estimated reaching time.

Frequently Asked Questions