New York Construction Report staff writer
A new $270 million consolidated cargo facility has opened at John F. Kennedy International Airport, marking the first new cargo hub at the airport in 25 years.
The construction project exceeded the Port Authority’s minority- and women-owned business participation goals, with over 42% of contracts awarded to MWBE firms. The facility is expected to create 100 permanent jobs, with a focus on local hiring through community outreach efforts.
“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.”
Developed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in partnership with Realterm and Worldwide Flight Services, the 350,000-square-foot facility spans 26 acres and replaces two outdated buildings. It consolidates operations that were previously spread across four sites.
The facility is part of the Port Authority’s broader redevelopment plan for JFK’s north cargo area and is operated by Worldwide Flight Services, the airport’s primary cargo handler.
The new center includes JFK’s first dedicated temperature-controlled storage space for pharmaceuticals and perishables, with 3,000 square feet of cooler space designed for goods requiring environments between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the project features electric forklifts, EV charging stations, and automated systems to reduce energy consumption. The facility includes a truck dock management system that uses real-time scheduling and digital communication to minimize wait times and reduce emissions.
The new facility aims to improve logistics, reduce truck congestion, and support long-term cargo growth at JFK.
It 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. The new cargo handling center features electric forklifts, electric vehicle chargers, and an automated unit load device system to optimize power usage.
