New Terminal One at JFK Announces Partnership with Ethiopian Airlines

The new terminal will host Ethiopian Airlines' New York operations starting in 2026.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:19am

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The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York has announced a strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, the flag carrier of Ethiopia and a member of Star Alliance. Ethiopian will transition its New York operations to the New Terminal One when it opens in 2026, offering service from New York to its Addis Ababa hub and providing one-stop access to destinations throughout Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Why it matters

The partnership strengthens JFK's role as a premier gateway to Africa and beyond, delivering a modern, seamless experience for travelers. It also aligns with the Port Authority's $19 billion transformation of JFK into a world-class international airport.

The details

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates from JFK's Terminal 7 and will move its New York operations to the New Terminal One when it opens in 2026. The new terminal will feature the latest technology, modern amenities, elevated retail and dining options, and sustainable design to maximize operational efficiency and passenger comfort.

  • The New Terminal One is scheduled to open its first gates in 2026.
  • Ethiopian Airlines will transition its New York operations to the New Terminal One when it opens in 2026.

The players

The New Terminal One at JFK

A key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway, which will include two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation center, and an entirely new, simplified roadway network.

Ethiopian Airlines

The flag carrier of Ethiopia and a member of Star Alliance, which will offer service from New York to its Addis Ababa hub, providing one-stop access to destinations throughout Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

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What they’re saying

“We are honored to welcome Ethiopian Airlines to the New Terminal One's diverse group of international carriers. By partnering with one of Africa's leading airlines and a key Star Alliance member, we are strengthening JFK's role as a premier gateway to Africa and beyond, while delivering the modern, seamless experience travelers expect from a next generation international terminal.”

— Jennifer Aument, Chief Executive Officer, The New Terminal One at JFK

“Partnering with The New Terminal One is a significant step in the service we offer to/from JFK airport. Our customers will benefit from a world-class airport terminal experience that complements our award-winning service, while enhancing connectivity, convenience, and travel options between Addis Ababa, New York and our global network.”

— Mesfin Tasew, Chief Executive Officer, Ethiopian Airlines Group

What’s next

The New Terminal One is being built in phases, with the first phase including the new arrivals and departures halls and first set of 14 new gates expected to open in 2026. The full completion of the 23-gate terminal is scheduled for 2030.

The takeaway

The partnership between the New Terminal One at JFK and Ethiopian Airlines strengthens the airport's position as a premier international gateway, providing travelers with enhanced connectivity, convenience, and a world-class terminal experience.