British Airways revamps JFK Business/First check-in areas shared with Qantas

British Airways is revamping the Business and First Class check-in area that's also used for Qantas flights to Los Angeles LAX at New York's John F Kennedy (JFK) airport's Terminal 7.

Construction starts this week and is due to finish in August or September this year. BA is warning that there may be some disruption to the usual terminal facilities while the works are in progress, so if you're travelling keep an eye out for the changes.

British Airways says that "the new look concourse will provide a calmer sense of space that’s reminiscent of a hotel lobby, with new lighting that complements the lounge feel and on-board experience."

That on-board experience in Club World, of course, includes hanging lights and wood panelling.

"New seating in the check-in area will provide more comfort and space for you to prepare prior checking in and going through security," BA says, so if you haven't already put your liquids into a zip-lock bag, that'll be the time.

JFK's generally a nightmare to use (although British Airways' terminal is one of the least unpleasant in the airport), so anything that makes the experience more bearable is a big win for travellers.

No word yet as to whether the infamous horse lamps that guard the Club World business class lounge at BA's London Heathrow Terminal 5 will be included...

Thanks to Australian Business Traveller reader Pat Tiller for the tip-off! If you notice something that other readers might find interesting, drop us a line at [email protected]!

John Walton

Aviation journalist and travel columnist John took his first long-haul flight when he was eight weeks old and hasn't looked back since. Well, except when facing rearwards in business class.