A significant milestone was marked this week in the redevelopment of John F. Kennedy International Airport, with a steel topping out ceremony for the new Terminal 6. The event celebrated the installation of the final piece of structural steel in the ambitious $4.2 billion project, which aims to transform JFK into a world-class travel hub.
Hundreds of union construction workers gathered to witness the lifting of the final beam, adorned with an American flag and an evergreen tree symbolizing good luck and safe construction. Terminal 6 will anchor the airport’s North Side and is expected to create over 4,000 jobs, including 1,800 union positions, as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s broader $19 billion investment in JFK.
“This state-of-the-art development would not have been possible without our skilled union workers and partners,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “Today marks a major milestone in transforming JFK into a world-class gateway that sets a new standard for travel in New York.”
The new Terminal 6 will feature modern amenities, expanded taxiway and gate capacity, advanced security systems, and streamlined roadway access. The terminal is scheduled to open in phases, with the arrivals and departures hall and the first five gates anticipated to be operational by 2026.
Local officials and community leaders highlighted the positive economic impact of the redevelopment, highlighting job creation and opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses. The project includes a goal of 30% MWBE participation in contracts, aiming to ensure that local communities benefit from the airport’s transformation.
As work progresses, the Port Authority remains committed to community engagement, seeking to provide meaningful economic and educational opportunities for residents in the surrounding areas.
With the completion of Terminal 6, JFK aims to enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers, solidifying its position as a vital gateway to the world. The broader redevelopment also includes plans for a new Terminal One, modernizations to Terminals 4 and 8, and infrastructure improvements to streamline airport operations.
The topping out of Terminal 6 represents a significant step forward in this historic transformation, setting the stage for a revitalized JFK Airport that meets the needs of modern travelers while fostering local economic growth.
