LOT Polish Airlines JFK Terminal: Terminal 1, 7, Or The New Terminal One? (2025 Traveler's Guide)

Navigating John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as a LOT Polish Airlines passenger can be confusing, especially with the airport undergoing one of the largest infrastructure overhauls in its history. The critical question of "Which terminal is LOT at?" has a fluid answer, shifting between Terminal 7 and Terminal 1, while a massive, state-of-the-art facility looms on the horizon. This article cuts through the noise to provide the most current and essential information for your departure or arrival. As of December 25, 2025, travelers flying with LOT Polish Airlines (LO) should be aware that the airline's operational terminal at JFK is subject to change due to the ongoing construction and phased opening of new facilities, though the most frequently cited current location for check-in and departures is Terminal 1 (T1). However, because of the transitional nature of JFK's infrastructure development, always confirm your terminal on the official LOT Polish Airlines website or your boarding pass 24 hours before your flight to avoid last-minute panic, as the airline has historically operated from Terminal 7 (T7) and is preparing for a major move.

The Current JFK Terminal for LOT Polish Airlines: T1 vs. T7 Explained

For years, LOT Polish Airlines, a proud member of the Star Alliance, primarily operated out of JFK's Terminal 7 (T7). This terminal, known for hosting several international carriers, was the familiar home for flights to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) and other European destinations.

The Recent Shift to Terminal 1

In a move reflecting the strategic repositioning of airlines ahead of the massive redevelopment projects, LOT Polish Airlines has been frequently cited as operating from Terminal 1 (T1). T1 is one of JFK's major international hubs, handling a significant volume of long-haul flights. * Check-in and Departures: If you are departing on a LOT flight, your check-in counters are most likely located in the departures hall of Terminal 1. It is advisable to arrive at least three hours before your scheduled international flight time. * Arrivals: LOT arrivals at JFK, like most international flights, are processed through the Federal Inspection Services (FIS) area within the terminal they operate from (T1). Passengers will proceed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before collecting baggage. * Why the Confusion? The conflicting information regarding T1 and T7 is a direct result of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's (PANYNJ) extensive, multi-billion-dollar effort to modernize JFK. As older terminals are demolished and new ones are built, airlines are temporarily relocated, making real-time verification crucial.

The Future of LOT at JFK: A Move to The New Terminal One (NTO)

The biggest news for LOT Polish Airlines passengers is the airline's confirmed long-term plan to move into the revolutionary New Terminal One (NTO). This project is not just a renovation; it is the construction of a brand-new, world-class international gateway that will ultimately replace the existing Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

What is The New Terminal One (NTO)?

The NTO is a $9.5 billion project being developed by a consortium that includes major global partners. It is set to be the largest terminal at JFK, spanning 2.4 million square feet and featuring 23 modern contact gates designed to handle the largest international aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner that LOT utilizes on its transatlantic routes. * Timeline: The NTO is being constructed in phases. The first phase, which includes the opening of the initial new gates, is scheduled to commence operations in 2026. * LOT's Role: LOT Polish Airlines is a founding partner and anchor tenant of the NTO project, alongside other major international carriers like Etihad, EVA Air, and Korean Air. This partnership ensures LOT passengers will benefit from a state-of-the-art travel experience in the coming years. * Enhanced Experience: The NTO is specifically designed to elevate the passenger experience, offering high-end retail, diverse dining options, and significantly improved space and comfort compared to the older JFK terminals. This upgrade will bring the entire travel process—from check-in to boarding—into the 21st century.

Essential Traveler Tips for LOT Flights at JFK

Whether you are flying Business Class or Economy, navigating the often-complex environment of JFK requires preparation. Here are the essential tips for a smooth experience on your LOT Polish Airlines flight.

Lounge Access for Star Alliance Gold and Business Class

As a Star Alliance member, LOT Polish Airlines passengers with Star Alliance Gold status or those traveling in Business Class have access to partner lounges at JFK. * Terminal 7 Lounge History: When LOT operated from Terminal 7, eligible passengers often used the former British Airways lounge space, which became the Terminal 7 Lounge (shared with other airlines) or the nearby Alaska Lounge. * Terminal 1 Lounge Options: With the move to Terminal 1, LOT passengers will typically utilize one of the lounges available in that terminal, such as the Lufthansa Business and Senator Lounges, or the Korean Air KAL Lounge, depending on the specific partnership agreements in place at the time of travel. Always check the current Star Alliance lounge locator for the most accurate information on your travel date.

Ground Transportation and Connections

JFK is a vast airport, and knowing how to get to your LOT terminal is crucial, especially if you are connecting from another flight. * AirTrain JFK: The AirTrain is the primary method of transportation connecting all passenger terminals (T1, T4, T5, T7, T8), parking lots, and the subway/rail stations (Jamaica and Howard Beach). It operates 24/7 and is free for inter-terminal transfers. * Terminal Transfers: If you arrive on a domestic flight at Terminal 4 or Terminal 8 and need to reach LOT's current terminal (T1 or T7), take the AirTrain's inner loop. Allow at least 20–30 minutes for the transfer process, including walking time within the terminals.

Baggage and Check-in Policies

LOT Polish Airlines is known for its high standard of service, particularly on its long-haul routes utilizing the Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. * Baggage Allowance: Always verify your checked baggage and carry-on allowance on the LOT.com website, as policies can vary based on your ticket class (Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class) and your specific route to Poland or other European destinations. * Online Check-in: Utilizing the LOT Polish Airlines online check-in feature, typically available 24 hours before departure, can save significant time. You can select your seat and get your boarding pass digitally, only needing to visit the counter for baggage drop-off. The check-in counter for baggage drop-off usually opens approximately 3.5 to 4 hours before the scheduled departure time. The ongoing transformation of JFK means that while LOT Polish Airlines might be operating out of Terminal 1 or Terminal 7 today, the future is clearly defined by the massive, modern New Terminal One. Staying informed and double-checking your flight details will ensure your journey to or from New York is as seamless as the flight aboard the Dreamliner itself.

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