Traveling with Alaska Airlines? This Is the JFK Terminal You Need

One of the most common questions tourists have while traveling Alaska Airlines into or out of New York City via JFK is, "What terminal is Alaska Airlines at JFK?" The answer is now somewhat more flexible than it was in the past.

Alaska Airlines operated out of Terminal 7 at JFK for a long time. Terminal 7 served as the "home base" for Alaska's arrivals and departures, housing the airline's gates, check-in counters (Zone C), and lounge areas.

Why is the data at the terminal changing?

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, its sister airline, started preparing to relocate to Terminal 8 at JFK in 2025. Co-locating Alaska with other OneWorld alliance members at JFK is the goal of the relocation, which promises improved connections, state-of-the-art facilities, and a wider selection of services.

Consequently, Alaska intended to completely shift all activities, including gates, ticket counters, and passenger services, into Terminal 8 by October 2025.

What terminal does Alaska Airlines now operate out of at JFK?

• Depending on the route, Alaska Airlines currently operates flights from either Terminal 7 or Terminal 8 at JFK.
• The airline is completing its move to Terminal 8 as of 2025, therefore more flights are probably going to use Terminal 8, particularly those coming from or going to big hubs or codeshare partners.
• Depending on the particular route, schedule, and operational factors, your flight may use Terminal 7 or 8. For the precise terminal, always refer to your boarding card or the airline's flight-status information.

As a result, there is no one correct answer; Alaska Airlines may use either Terminal 7 or Terminal 8 at JFK, and the terminal may change depending on the route.

For travelers, what does the relocation to Terminal 8 mean?

• Improved connectivity: If you're transferring planes, being in Terminal 8 with other Oneworld carriers (such as American Airlines and British Airways) makes connections easier.
• Newer amenities: Terminal 8 is being renovated with improved restaurants, shopping, lounges, and passenger facilities—a contemporary setting that enhances the whole traveler experience.
• It's advisable to confirm your terminal in advance to prevent confusion, as flights may continue to operate from Terminal 7 throughout the transition period.

Useful advice for tourists

1. Even just before departure, terminal assignments can change, so always check your final boarding pass or airline app.
2. Terminal 8 may provide superior amenities and simpler transfers if you're connecting flights, particularly with Oneworld partners.
3. Check to see if your flight still uses Terminal 7 if you like its more relaxed atmosphere and familiarity, but be advised that the dedicated Alaska Lounge there might be phased out once the relocation is finished.
4. At the airport, give yourself additional time. Transfers or walking between terminals (or using the airport's internal transit) may be required if Alaska's operations move between terminals.

In conclusion

In summary, depending on your flight, Alaska Airlines operates out of either Terminal 7 or Terminal 8 at JFK. Although many planes can still operate out of Terminal 7, Alaska Airlines is currently in the final phases of moving its operations to Terminal 8. Always verify the specifics of your flight before departing for the best possible experience, particularly during this period of transition.