Port Authority, Realterm, WFS celebrate opening of usd$270 million cargo terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport
New Facility Streamlines Operations, Reduces Truck Congestion, and Supports Growth of High-Value Cargo Sector
JFK’s Cargo Operations Support More Than 93,000 Jobs and Generate More Than USD$11 Billion in Economic Activity Annually
New York, 28 April 2025 - The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in partnership with Realterm and Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), today celebrated the opening of a state-of-the-art USD$270 million cargo terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The first new cargo terminal at JFK in 30 years, the facility consolidates operations from four separate cargo zones into a single, modernised location, reducing congestion, streamlining operations, and unlocking space for future development.
The JFK air cargo sector plays a vital role in the regional and national economy, supporting more than 93,000 jobs and generating $11.4 billion in economic activity annually. The new facility enhances JFK’s role as a premier hub for global trade and is expected to generate new jobs and economic development opportunities while improving service for industries reliant on high-value cargo such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and perishables.
“This facility is a critical investment in the infrastructure that powers the regional and national economy,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “JFK plays a central role in global commerce, and this modern cargo terminal strengthens its position as a key gateway for high-value goods and international trade.”
“By replacing outdated cargo facilities with a modern, consolidated terminal, we’re dramatically improving efficiency and sustainability at JFK,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “This facility reduces truck congestion, lowers emissions, and creates good-paying jobs, all while supporting the industries that power New York and the nation.”
Operated by WFS, JFK’s primary cargo handler, the 350,000-square-foot facility spans 26 acres and replaces two older facilities. The new facility is part of the Port Authority’s broader North Cargo Area Redevelopment Initiative, which aims to reduce congestion, improve logistics flow, and free up land for future development. In 2024, JFK handled 1.67 million tons of cargo, a 5 percent increase from 2023 and 25 percent more than in 2019, making it the eighth-busiest cargo airport in the U.S. and 21st globally. JFK is additionally the nation’s busiest entry point for low-value international e-commerce packages, handling about one-quarter of all such shipments into the U.S.
Several innovations in the new facility are expected to streamline the airport’s cargo operations, reducing wait times for truck drivers and minimising queuing outside the facility. These include an advanced truck dock management system designed to optimise the flow of goods in and out of the facility, leveraging real-time scheduling, automated check-ins, and digital communication between drivers and dock operators. The system automatically allocates the most efficient doors based on the size, type, and contents of each delivery, maximising throughput and reducing delays. The system also ensures that trucks arrive only when a dock is available, greatly reducing idle wait times and on-site congestion. This coordination ensures that fewer trucks are on the road or waiting in nearby neighbourhoods, leading to reduced noise, emissions, and traffic congestion for the surrounding community.
Building 260 also includes 3,000 square feet of cooler space for goods requiring 2-8°C and 15-25°C environments, making it JFK’s first dedicated on-airport facility for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and perishables.
The facility also sets a new benchmark for sustainability, advancing the Port Authority’s industry-leading commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to facilitate the same goal for its operational partners. Building 260 features electric forklifts, electric vehicle chargers, and an automated Unit Load Device system to optimise power usage.
“We are thrilled to see this project come to life as a showpiece for cargo operations not just at JFK, but for airports worldwide,” said David Rose, managing director of Realterm. “This modern and one-of-a-kind facility exemplifies what can be achieved through strong public-private partnerships and demonstrates Realterm’s commitment to creating infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of the air cargo industry while supporting local economic development.”
“WFS is proud of its 41 years of service to our customers at JFK,” said Mike Simpson, Gateway Services chief executive officer, Americas at WFS. “This new facility marks a new era for WFS and air cargo at one of the main gateways to the United States. This cutting-edge facility reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in our drive to serve customers better. This new development sets new standards for efficiency and safety and is a showpiece not just for JFK’s aviation ecosystem, but to the air cargo industry worldwide. The facility embodies our dedication to connecting the world through logistics and embraces new levels of digitalisation and sustainability that will act as a model for other new cargo operations around the world.”
The project also exceeded its goals for participation by Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), with more than 32 percent of construction contracts awarded to MWBE firms, creating significant economic opportunities for local communities. The new facility is expected to generate 100 permanent new jobs, with a priority placed on hiring from the airport’s surrounding community through ongoing and targeted local hiring events and outreach in partnership with the Council for Airport Opportunity and other workforce development organisations.