Governor Hochul, the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and Del
Opening of the $4 Billion Terminal Means that Every Passenger at LaGuardia Airport Will Be Using World Class Facilities at the Nation's First New Major Airport in 25 Years
The Expansive New Terminal C, Nearly Double in Size to The Two Terminals It Replaces, Sports Soaring Floor-to-Ceiling Windows, 21st Century Technology and Locally-Inspired Concessions
In Partnership with Queens Museum, Evocative Permanent Artworks by Local Artists Highlight New York's Immigrant History and Cultural Diversity
Photos of the New Terminal C Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Rick Cotton and Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian today announced the opening of Delta's new Terminal C, which marks the substantial completion of the $8 billion whole new LaGuardia Airport just six years after beginning construction. The opening of Terminal C on June 4, combined with the completion of the new Terminal B earlier this year, means every passenger, except those traveling through the landmarked Marine Air Terminal, will experience new, world-class airport facilities when departing from or arriving to the airport. At a cost of $4 billion - including a $500 million investment by the Port Authority for new roadways and supporting infrastructure -- Terminal C represents Delta's largest ever investment in an airport facility. With today's milestone, coming mere months after the Governor celebrated the completion of the airport's new Terminal B in January, a Whole New LaGuardia Airport becomes the nation's first major new airport in more than 25 years.
"The transformation of a LaGuardia Airport into a world-class destination that is internationally recognized for its beauty is an integral part of our bold vision for a new era in New York," Governor Hochul said. "The opening of Delta's $4 billion Terminal C will help provide a state-of-the-art passenger experience, easing connections and creating lasting impressions. Congratulations to all who made today's milestone possible as we finish creating a whole new LaGuardia Airport worthy of New York. "
A New Terminal C Experience That Sets the Standard for Modern Air Travel
At 1.3 million square feet, the new, state-of-the-art Terminal C will be 85 percent larger than the two terminals it is replacing - consolidating access to 37 gates through a single 21st century arrivals and departures hall. Throughout the terminal, soaring floor-to-ceiling windows ensure it is filled with natural light by day. Terminal C has been designed for optimal efficiency and speed, allowing travelers to navigate to and from their gates quickly and intuitively, utilizing the latest technologies such as hands-free bag drop and Digital ID screening capabilities. A curbside check-in building will allow passengers who are already checked-in to get to the security screening area more quickly. The departures hall features 36 full-service check-in counters, 49 self-service kiosks and 16 bag-drop counters. A larger and consolidated security area will feature 11 screening lanes with room for five additional lanes in the future, featuring state-of-the art technology to expedite screening while prioritizing the safety of passengers. Dynamic signage in the TSA queue will display passenger wait times and will allow queuing zones to be adjusted based on passenger demand. On the arrivals level, passengers will be able to retrieve their luggage from one of five baggage carousels. There are 13 restrooms within the new terminal, all featuring touch-free entry, sinks and hand dryers.
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said, "In a word, the new Terminal C is magnificent - an architectural gem that dwarfs the facilities it replaces in size, style and functionality. It represents 21st century air travel that is world class in every respect - which can now be said of the entire whole new LaGuardia Airport, which six years ago was among the most reviled in the nation. I thank Governor Hochul for her support, the entire Delta team for their indefatigable efforts and the many employees of the Port Authority who collaborated to make this new world-class airport a reality. Today proves what our region can accomplish when we really put our collective will behind such an ambitious goal."
Delta CEO Ed Bastian said, "Today marks a new beginning for Delta customers and employees at our LaGuardia hub with the opening of this remarkable new terminal. It's been more than a decade since Delta committed to growing - and winning - in New York, and we've been unwavering in our efforts to become New York City's No. 1 airline. It's thanks to the 10,000 New York-based Delta people that we've been able to invest nearly $7 billion in New York airports since 2010, deliver the products and experiences our New York customers deserve, and become part of the fabric of the New York community that means so much to so many of us."
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O'Toole said, "The Port Authority remains wholly committed to improving its customer experience and its facilities across the region, and here at LaGuardia Airport we are seeing this take shape in a truly remarkable and inspiring fashion. The design of Delta's new Terminal C creates a bright, welcoming environment for travelers, airline and airport employees. The entire LaGuardia team worked tirelessly toward building a world-class airport, and we couldn't be prouder."
Inspiring Selection of Concessions Featuring Local and Global Brands
The completed Terminal C will include 80 percent more concession space than Delta's former terminals with 95 percent of those new concessions located after security, allowing passengers to shop and dine while waiting for their flights. Concessions will include local favorites in partnership with OTG like, Bubby's, Sunday Supper Trattoria, Chuko Ramen Poppy's Bagel and Starbucks while Stellar Partners will provide specialty retail stores like Buzzfeed News/, Beekman 1802, MAC, Le Labo, Briggs & Riley, Patricia Nash, Beekman and True to New York. Terminal C will also be home to the newest and largest Delta Sky Club in the system, providing over 34,000 square feet when complete to relax and recharge, with seating for nearly 600 guests.
"The opening of Delta's $4 billion Terminal C will help provide a state-of-the-art passenger experience, easing connections and creating lasting impressions."
Stunning Public Art Celebrating the Diversity of Queens and New York
Inspiring public art curated by the Queens Museum to reflect the cultural diversity of Queens will greet passengers as they move through the airport. The six art works are the creations of artists Mariam Ghani, Rashid Johnson, Aliza Nisenbaum, Virginia Overton, Ronny Quevedo, and Fred Wilson. Works include sculptures and painted ceramic murals, that span the building's multi-floor light-filled entry space, as well as baggage claim and other areas throughout the terminal. Each art work tells a compelling story about the city's immigrant history, its people, and the importance of celebrating diversity throughout the region.
State Senator Leroy Comrie said, "The greatest city in the world deserves a world-class airport for New Yorkers and those visiting our city. The new LaGuardia Airport, the first new major airport built in over two decades, brings us to that benchmark. As Chair of the Senate Committee with oversight of the Port Authority, I look forward to working with the Port, MWBE's and other stakeholders to see even more transformational projects like Terminal C, done efficiently and effectively to help our city and regional economy recover. I extend congratulations to Governor Hochul, to our friends in labor and the trades, and everyone who persevered through a difficult time to get this project through to completion."
Assemblymember Jeffrion Aubry said, "The New LaGuardia Airport offers world-wide travelers state-of-the art improvements with the latest completion of another terminal. It is important to note that the new infrastructure of the New LaGuardia also consists of a bounty of local businesses and artists. These local entrepreneurs reflect the culturally diverse groups that have made Queens, NY their home. Local businesses have received $800 million in contracts while MWBE firms have received an unprecedented $2 billion in contracts. Let's keep this powerful momentum of integrating innovation with local communities moving forward."
Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, "I'm thrilled that the LaGuardia Airport renovation is near completion. The new LaGuardia brings an incredible new experience for travelers. With its large, light-filled spaces, spectacular works of art, vastly improved technology, and superior concessions, New Yorkers and those visiting New York will be welcomed in high style. Thank you and congratulations to Governor Hochul, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and the many men and women who worked to make Terminal C and the new LaGuardia a reality."
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said, "The first new airport in the United States in 25 years is essentially done, and I couldn't be prouder that it's right here in Queens. Beyond the stark beauty of the new LaGuardia Airport, this redevelopment project has been community-focused every step of the way to the tune of $800 million in contracts for Queens businesses and I am grateful to all our partners who helped make it so. Queens comeback is well underway, and LaGuardia is living proof."
NYC Council Member Francisco Moya said, "Starting today, New York City will greet visitors and send off residents in style. We are the greatest city in the world and the Whole New LaGuardia airport brings our gateway to the world to that standard. Having worked at LaGuardia Airport and now representing it, seeing this massive investment in my community makes me proud. Congratulations to all who worked to bring this project from a wish to reality- delivering a world class experience to world class city."
President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York Gary LaBarbera said, "Today's milestone for Terminal C is a major accomplishment for all of New York, as the vision for a Whole New LaGuardia Airport has been transformed into a reality. We applaud the tens of thousands of hardworking members of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York who have committed themselves to building a world-class and, what will soon be, world-renowned airport. Thanks to all those involved in this successful project, a Whole New LaGuardia Airport will help facilitate the best experience possible for those departing from, arriving to, and working at the airport."
Partnership for New York City President & CEO Kathryn Wylde said, "The completion of a new Terminal C marks an important milestone on the path toward achieving a world class airport system in our city. This was achieved through a public-.private partnership that should be a model for the next generation of infrastructure in New York."
Queens Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Thomas Grech said, "As the oldest and largest business association in Queens, we are delighted to stand with Governor Hochul, and our friends at the Port Authority and Delta to celebrate the opening of the new Terminal C at LaGuardia Airport. This historic $4 billion investment to modernize LaGuardia will be a boost to our region's economic recovery. We are proud of the role that Chamber members, particularly MWBEs have played in the transformation of LaGuardia, which does a wonderful job of showcasing the history and diversity that makes Queens so special."
New York Building Congress President & CEO Carlo A. Scissura said, "We all know the jokes about the old LaGuardia well, they've been cancelled - in the best way possible! Today's opening of the new, spectacular Terminal C is the next stage toward ushering in a completely reimagined airport experience for the millions of passengers who rely on LaGuardia for business and pleasure. Our nation has a new standard for modern air travel, and it's right here in Queens. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this day to reality, especially Gov. Hochul, Port Authority Director Rick Cotton, Delta CEO Ed Bastian, and, of course, the women and men of labor who built this magnificent achievement."
OTG Management CEO Rick Blastein said, "We're beyond excited to partner with Delta on the long-anticipated opening of the new Terminal C. Delta continues to deliver top-tier service that is entirely focused on the customer experience and OTG also stands by those values. It was important for us to work with Delta to secure local partners for this terminal including collaborating with New York illustrator John P. Dessereau to drawing inspiration from Italian neighborhoods such New York City's Arthur Avenue in The Bronx. We're also proud to be serving OrwashersArtisanal Buns, Pat LaFrieda Meats, Queen's-based Hella Cocktail Co, Butcher Girls Hot Dogs, LIC Beer Project and produce from the Hudson Valley at our local restaurants such as Bubby's, Chuko Ramen and more. Our goal is to bring guests an immersive and high-tech experience that really highlighted authentic cuisine from local restaurants that truly embody the diversity of New York. With our latest technology, customers will have more flexibility over their airport experience by ordering what they want, from where they want, right from their mobile device."
President of East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association Larinda Hooks said, "The Port Authority of NY & NJ and Delta have become better neighbors in East Elmhurst and Corona. They have worked diligently with the East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association to support various community events, helping local residents gain employment, and awarding scholarships to the youth. They are committed to staying a strong community neighbor for the long-term by maintaining high levels of engagement and partnerships."
Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens CDC Inc. Executive Director Yoselin Genao Estrella said, "On behalf of Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens, I congratulate Governor Hochul, The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, and Delta Air Lines on the opening of this new world-class terminal at LaGuardia Airport which we hope that passengers can enjoy and also, we hope the surrounding communities' residents can continued benefiting from jobs creation through LaGuardia Career Center. In addition, I applaud their leadership for listening to the community by installing the permanent art exhibition, which will display and celebrate the rich diversity and the great contribution immigrants have made in Queens."
A Whole New LGA Nears Completion Six Years After First Breaking Ground
The total $8 billion transformation of LaGuardia Airport makes it is the first new major airport built in the United States in the last 25 years. In 2015, a comprehensive plan to construct a whole new LaGuardia Airport was unveiled with the goal of creating a world-class, 21st century passenger experience featuring brand new terminals and gates, two stunning new arrivals and departures halls, modern customer amenities, state-of-the-art architecture, more spacious gate areas and a unified terminal system. The $8 billion project, two-thirds of which is funded through private financing and existing passenger fees, broke ground in 2016.
Construction of a new LaGuardia Airport generated a record-setting $2 billion in contracts awarded to Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, the largest participation by MWBE firms at any public-private partnership project in New York State history. The project has also demonstrated a significant focus on working with locally-based contractors; to date, $800 million in contracts have been awarded to Queens-based local business enterprises.
The new airport has been built in phases to ensure that it remained fully operational and never lost capacity throughout construction. Every existing passenger facility, with the exception of the historic Marine Air Terminal, has been or will be demolished and replaced with new 21st century, world class facilities.
In February 2018, the new Terminal B parking garage opened with over 3,000 spaces and a dedicated level for Uber, Lyft and other for-hire car services. In December 2018, the first of 18 new gates and the first new concourse in Terminal B opened. In November 2019, Delta opened its first new concourse and seven new gates at Terminal C. In June 2020, the light-filled new Arrivals and Departures Hall at Terminal B opened amid the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. With Terminal C's opening, the airport's new roadway network is being completed with 8.4 miles of new roads and 24 new bridges. In January 2022, the airport celebrated the completion of Terminal B's passenger facilities including its second pedestrian skybridge as one of the airport's signature architectural features.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is a bi-state agency that builds, operates, and maintains many of the most important transportation and trade infrastructure assets in the country. For over a century, the agency's network of aviation, ground, rail, and seaport facilities has been among the busiest in the country, supporting more than 550,000 regional jobs, and generating more than $23 billion in annual wages and $80 billion in annual economic activity. The Port Authority also owns and manages the 16-acre World Trade Center campus, which hosts millions of annual visitors and tens of thousands of office workers. The Port Authority receives no tax revenue from either the states of New York or New Jersey or from the city of New York. The agency raises the necessary funds for the improvement, construction or acquisition of its facilities primarily on its own credit. For more information or for updates from the Now Arriving blog, please visit https://www.panynj.gov/blog.