Consider this: Terminal 7 at JFK is more than just a place to catch a flight. It’s a landmark with a rich history. Opened in 1970, Terminal 7 was initially designed as the home of BOAC. BOAC was British Overseas Airways Corporation. Later British Airways took over Terminal 7.
Terminal 7 was the only terminal at JFK owned and operated by an international airline. Designed by GMW Architects, its practical design ensured a clear line of sight for air traffic control. The flat roof was even designed to withstand helicopters. But it never served that purpose. Princess Alexandra officially opened Terminal 7 on September 24, 1970.
BOAC proudly promoted having its own terminal with dedicated customs and immigration facilities. In its early years, Terminal 7 was shared between British Airways and other airlines like United. Frequent flyers appreciated its short walking distances and expansive lounge complex. The JFK Concorde Room was considered one of the best.
British Airways even planned a “drive-through” check-in for premium passengers. The 2008 financial crisis put those plans on hold. In 2018, New York State announced a redevelopment of JFK. Terminal 7 was deemed “undersized and functionally obsolete”. Demolition is planned to make way for the new Terminal 6. British Airways has moved to Terminal 8.
BOAC commissioned GMW to design the terminal in 1963. Air Canada signed on as a subtenant. British West Indian Airways and Qantas would also use it. The terminal was designed to accommodate growth. By 1975, it was expected to serve two million passengers. Minimal travel routes and ease of administration were key design considerations.
GMW designed a functional three-level structure of reinforced concrete and tinted glass. This was in the style of Brutalism. The initial design featured a pier for six BOAC VC-10s. Air Canada’s three gates were directly attached. The rooftop heliport was scrapped.
The project was announced at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in 1965. Edmund F. Ward of GMW subtly jabbed at Pan Am’s “umbrella” terminal and TWA’s Flight Center. The latter was referred to as “the flying bra”. BOAC ordered Boeing 747s, forcing a gate layout redesign. The piers were replaced by a wrap-around pier. This improved aircraft maneuverability.
BOAC’s section had three gates capable of handling 747s. Boarding bridges connected to both sides of the aircraft. Luffing bridges moved vertically to separate arriving and departing passengers. BOAC’s check-in area used “supermarket flow through principles”. Air Canada’s facilities included the Maple Leaf Lounge.
The mezzanine housed BOAC’s Monarch Lounge. It also had a cocktail bar, restaurant, offices, and a VIP suite. The lower level had baggage rooms, a public arrivals lobby, and a staff canteen.
Construction started in 1967. Industrial disputes and fires delayed the opening until June 30, 1970. The final cost was USD 56 million. Princess Alexandra dedicated the terminal on September 24. A commemorative plaque symbolized the air bridge between Europe and North America. Stones from London Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and Signal Hill were used.
In its first years, Terminal 7 served flights to London, Bermuda, Montego Bay, and Los Angeles. In 1974, BOAC merged with British European Airways to form British Airways. Supersonic services began in 1977. A dedicated lounge for Concorde passengers was created. Terminal 7 is now the smallest and oldest of JFK’s terminals. It awaits demolition and replacement by the new Terminal 6.