NEW YORK (Diya TV) — Air India will move its operations at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to the new Terminal 6 in 2028, marking a major step in the airline’s expansion in North America. The move will bring the carrier closer to several Star Alliance partners while giving travelers faster and easier connections through one of the busiest airports in the United States.
The airline and JFK Millennium Partners announced the decision on July 21. Air India said the relocation will improve the travel experience for passengers and support its ongoing transformation. In addition, the airline plans to open its first flagship Maharaja Lounge in North America at the new terminal, further expanding its premium services in the region.
Air India currently operates daily nonstop flights from JFK’s Terminal 4 to Delhi and Mumbai with its Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 aircraft. Those services will continue from Terminal 4 until the planned move takes place in 2028.
The airline said the shift to Terminal 6 will strengthen its connections with Star Alliance members and other airline partners. As a result, passengers will enjoy same-terminal transfers to many destinations across North and South America. That change will reduce travel time between flights and make international connections more convenient.
Terminal 6 has already attracted commitments from 16 international airlines. Several Star Alliance carriers, including Air Canada, All Nippon Airways, Austrian Airlines, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, SWISS, and TAP Air Portugal, will also operate from the terminal. Other airlines include JetBlue, Cathay Pacific, Aer Lingus, Condor, Icelandair, Kuwait Airways, and Norse Atlantic.
Meanwhile, Air India will introduce a new 9,100-square-foot Maharaja Lounge inside Terminal 6. The lounge will become the airline’s first flagship facility in North America. The announcement follows the recent opening of its Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco International Airport. The company said the new space will offer an upgraded ground experience for premium travelers before departure.
JFK Millennium Partners is developing Terminal 6 as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport. Developers will open the terminal in two phases. The first gates will begin operations in 2026, while construction of the full terminal will finish in 2028.
The project aims to modernize the airport and improve the passenger experience. Terminal 6 will connect directly with Terminal 5 and feature a shared customs and border processing facility. Travelers will also benefit from shorter walking distances, improved wayfinding, updated technology, and expanded shopping and dining options inspired by New York City.
In addition, the terminal will include 10 gates, with nine designed for widebody aircraft. It will also feature an advanced baggage handling system, airline-branded passenger drop-off areas, and a new ground transportation center. Developers have also included several sustainability measures, such as rooftop solar power, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally responsible building materials. The project is also seeking LEED, Envision, and SITES certifications.
George Casey, chair of JFK Millennium Partners and chairman and chief executive officer of Vantage Group, welcomed Air India’s decision. He said the airline’s commitment supports the company’s vision of creating a world-class international terminal and strengthens JFK’s position as a leading global gateway.
Steve Thody, chief executive officer of JFK Millennium Partners, said the new terminal will match Air India’s modernization efforts. He added that passengers will benefit from shorter walks, improved comfort, and a more efficient airport experience.
Air India Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said New York has served as one of India’s most important international gateways for more than 60 years. He said the airline’s move to Terminal 6 will complement its fleet modernization and deliver a stronger customer experience. He also noted that the location near Star Alliance partners will provide smoother connections and more convenient journeys for travelers.
