An agreement between JetBlue Airways and
the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey was approved yesterday for a
new terminal at JFK International Airport, to be designed by
Gensler…Architecture, Design & Planning Worldwide. The
625,000-square-foot terminal will have 26 contact gates with a projected
20 million passengers passing through a year. Construction is slated to
begin in the fall of 2004 for a projected opening in 2008. Gensler is
building and interior architect, Ammann & Whitney is the structural
engineer, Arup is MEP engineer and Design Coordinator, and BNP Associates
is the baggage-handling consultant. “JetBlue takes its customers across the country for as little as $99, and
they do it in style. So for their new terminal at JFK International
Airport, JetBlue wanted a building that reflected their commitment to
service and efficiency,” said David Epstein, Gensler’s Design Principal
for the project.

The new structure’s trim, low profile creates a respectful background to
the former TWA terminal just opposite. However, the new design is also
distinguished from the soaring concrete curves of the old terminal with
geometric lines and a taut metal and glass enclosure that create a
contemporary feel.

JetBlue customers will approach the new terminal via a new departures
roadway or a bridge extension from the Airtrain station. After proceeding
through ticketing and security areas, passengers will continue to the
junction of three concourses where the marketplace will offer a variety of
food choices to take on board in addition to places to relax and dine
before taking off.

“This is a post-9/11 design that not only accommodates the latest security
requirements but also creates an enjoyable and humane experience for
passengers in this new era of air travel,” said Bill Hooper, Gensler’s
managing principal for the project and an aviation security expert with
the firm.
——-