Carrier spends $30 million on terminal improvements

British Airways last week spelled out plans for an 18-month, $30 million project to improve ground facilities for premium passengers at its New York JFK terminal. Work will begin in June on the project, which includes development of a new premium check-in pavilion with curbside drop- off for First Class and Executive Club Gold passengers; construction of a larger dedicated check-in area for Club World and Executive Club Silver flyers; and renovation of Terraces, First Class and Concorde lounges to the same specifications as the comparable lounges at BA’s Heathrow Terminal 5. “The new premium pavilion will be totally unique at JFK, and we expect it will be very much appreciated by those premium customers who enjoy extra special handling and red-carpet treatment,” said Robin Hayes, BA’s executive vp-the Americas. Premium customers will also be able to use the services of Quintessentially, a concierge service company that fulfills “extra-special needs or services – hotels, clubs, spas, restaurants – any time, anywhere in the world,” BA said. The airline noted that its Terminal 7 at JFK just opened a new full-service restaurant, Todd English’s Bonfire; and that its Club World lounge at JFK now offers free facials, massages and other spa services for passengers.