New Zealand, USA : Air New Zealand Partners with The New Terminal One at JFK to Enhance Auckland-New York Travel Experience

Published on March 5, 2025

It was reported that Air New Zealand and The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) had announced a strategic partnership, signaling a major step forward for the airline’s operations in the United States. Industry observers indicated that this move was set to enhance passenger experiences on one of Air New Zealand’s flagship routes—Auckland to New York City.

According to aviation analysts, The New Terminal One was a key component of the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport, designed to modernize infrastructure and provide a world-class travel experience for international passengers. Reports suggested that Air New Zealand, which currently operates from JFK’s existing Terminal 1, would relocate to the new terminal in 2026, aligning its operations with some of the world’s leading airlines.

The decision was viewed as a commitment to long-term growth in the North American market, reinforcing Air New Zealand’s focus on delivering high-quality services for ultra-long-haul travelers.

Elevating the Ultra-Long-Haul Experience

Industry sources revealed that Air New Zealand’s Auckland–New York route, first launched in 2022, had since become a cornerstone of the airline’s global network. Reports highlighted that with a flight time exceeding 17 hours, this route ranked among the world’s longest nonstop flights, providing a direct connection between New Zealand and the East Coast of the United States.

Experts suggested that relocating to The New Terminal One would enhance Air New Zealand’s premium service offerings, as the state-of-the-art terminal was being designed with a focus on passenger comfort, efficiency, and luxury amenities.

According to Jennifer Aument, CEO of The New Terminal One at JFK, the partnership reflected a shared commitment to growth and innovation in global aviation. Industry insiders noted that enhanced lounges, streamlined security processes, and a world-class dining and shopping experience would be among the terminal’s standout features.

Reports also revealed that Ben Evers-Swindell, General Manager Americas at Air New Zealand, had emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing an exceptional airport experience, particularly for ultra-long-haul passengers embarking on journeys between New Zealand and the U.S.

Positioning JFK as a Global Travel Hub

Travel experts remarked that The New Terminal One was set to become JFK’s largest international terminal, spanning 2.6 million square feet and incorporating 23 gates exclusively for global carriers. Reports indicated that the first phase of construction, including arrivals and departures halls and 14 new gates, was expected to be completed by 2026, with full terminal completion anticipated by 2030.

Industry professionals suggested that this redevelopment would elevate JFK’s status as a premier international gateway, making it one of the most modern airport facilities in the world. The project was reportedly aiming to achieve a Top 5 Skytrax ranking, competing with some of the highest-rated airport terminals globally.

The inclusion of Air New Zealand in this expansion was said to reflect New Zealand’s growing importance as a destination for U.S. travelers, while also strengthening the country’s connectivity with key global markets.

Air New Zealand Joins Leading International Airlines at The New Terminal One

Reports indicated that Air New Zealand was one of several global airlines that had committed to operating out of The New Terminal One, alongside:

• Air France
• KLM
• Etihad Airways
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Korean Air
• EVA Air
• Air Serbia
• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Neos
• Philippine Airlines
• Turkish Airlines

Additionally, sources revealed that The New Terminal One had partnered with Air China to develop specialized services for Chinese travelers visiting New York.

Aviation analysts suggested that this diverse lineup of airlines would establish the terminal as a major hub for international travel, offering seamless connectivity for passengers flying between North America, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.

How This Partnership Benefits Travelers

With Air New Zealand’s planned transition to The New Terminal One, industry professionals anticipated several key benefits for travelers:

• Enhanced passenger experience – A modernized, world-class terminal with premium lounges, streamlined security checks, and advanced boarding systems.
• Improved transit for long-haul flights – With a dedicated focus on international operations, passengers were expected to experience shorter connection times and improved transfer facilities.
• Expanded airline partnerships – Air New Zealand’s move could strengthen codeshare and interline agreements, providing more travel options to passengers connecting through JFK.

Industry observers noted that as global air travel demand continued to rise, airports were under increasing pressure to modernize and optimize the passenger experience. The shift to The New Terminal One was reportedly part of Air New Zealand’s broader strategy to enhance its U.S. operations, ensuring higher service standards for passengers flying between the United States and the South Pacific.

The Growing Demand for New Zealand-U.S. Travel

Aviation experts pointed out that demand for New Zealand as a travel destination had seen a steady increase, particularly from U.S. travelers seeking adventure, nature experiences, and cultural tourism.

Reports suggested that with New Zealand’s borders fully open and tourism rebounding, flight routes between Auckland and North America had become critical connections for the travel industry.

According to market data, Air New Zealand had positioned itself as a leader in long-haul travel, benefiting from:

• A well-connected domestic network serving 20 regions across New Zealand.
• Strong partnerships with Star Alliance members, allowing seamless connectivity beyond the airline’s direct routes.
• A modern fleet of fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, ensuring a comfortable, eco-friendly flying experience.

The expansion at JFK was expected to boost tourism between New Zealand and the United States, making it easier for travelers to experience both destinations without unnecessary layovers.

Setting a New Standard for International Travel

With The New Terminal One at JFK set to become one of the most advanced airport terminals in the world, travel industry professionals speculated that Air New Zealand’s move could set a new benchmark for ultra-long-haul travel experiences.

By partnering with a next-generation airport facility, the airline was seen as strengthening its reputation for premium international service, ensuring greater comfort, convenience, and efficiency for travelers.

For those planning trans-Pacific journeys between New York and Auckland, the upcoming transition was expected to deliver a seamless, world-class travel experience, redefining the future of international air travel between New Zealand and the United States.