Marisa Von Wieding

Marisa Von Wieding is Vice President of Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK, the developer and operator of a new all-international terminal in New York. She oversees the operations and customer experience at the terminal, which will transform the international travel experience to and from New York.

Prior to joining The New Terminal One, Marisa led operations and guest experience at the successful redevelopment of LaGuardia Terminal B. She played an integral role in ensuring the operational readiness of the terminal and served as the key liaison with airline partners and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. LaGuardia Terminal B was recognized with a Skytrax 5-star award for World’s Best New Airport Terminal. In addition, Marisa has served in senior roles in operations at major US carriers Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways. She spent seven years at JetBlue, where she led all aspects of the New York-based airline’s operational performance as Vice President of System Operations. Earlier in her career, Marisa served as Director of Delta’s New York JFK operations.

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How did you get your start working at the airports or in aviation?

Marisa Von Wieding: My career began while I was in college. I initially interviewed to work in reservations at Pan Am, but they froze hiring. They later offered me a position in the airport cleaning aircraft. I worked the midnight shift and attended school during the day. That opportunity allowed me to grow within the airport environment and gave me a front-row seat to learning everything that goes on behind the scenes.

What makes the New York metropolitan area unique to other aviation/airport markets?

Marisa Von Wieding: There is simply no aviation market like New York. We are home to the world’s biggest metropolitan economy, and JFK Airport is the largest international air gateway to the United States. It is an extremely competitive market and as they say, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. 

The New Terminal One is uniquely positioned to serve the region’s growing demand for international air travel in a way that no one else can. Our terminal’s widebody capacity will enable our partner airlines to upgauge their aircraft serving this important market while elevating the experience they offer to their customers. I am immensely proud to be a part of this landmark project and to help build something so monumental for New York.

What is the most memorable moment during your career in aviation or at the airports?

Marisa Von Wieding: One of the most memorable moments that left a lasting impression on me was when I participated in Wings for Autism. We invited families with autistic children to the airport to help familiarize them with the environment and make future travel easier. 

The event made me aware of the importance of accommodating people with different needs and how important it is to offer accessibility programs.

Did you have a mentor at the beginning of your career? Can you tell us about them and how they impacted your career?

Marisa Von Wieding: I was fortunate to have great leaders early in my career. I grew up in the industry in a primarily male-dominated environment. My leaders offered me great opportunities, introduced me to different departments, and treated me as an equal individual and member of the team. 

Most importantly, they recognized and valued my contributions which allowed me to grow.

Are you a member of any local airport-related civic or business groups?

Marisa Von Wieding: I am an active member of the Kennedy Airport Airlines Management Council (KAAMCO), which provides an important forum for aviation professionals working at JFK to network and exchange ideas.

Is there an airport redevelopment project that you are most interested in seeing completed?

Marisa Von Wieding: I am biased but my colleagues and I are excited about our progress at the New Terminal One, scheduled to open in June 2026. As the largest standalone airport terminal in the United States, the New Terminal One will anchor the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport and offer a travel experience like no other. 

My team is overseeing all aspects of the operations and guest experience, and we are looking forward to delivering a world-class terminal that will set a new benchmark in global aviation. 

Was aviation your first choice for your career?

Marisa Von Wieding: I never considered aviation but once I started, I loved it and got hooked. I was able to work while continuing my education and the industry also provided travel opportunities around the world. 

What are the top skills a new airport worker should have to succeed?

Marisa Von Wieding: In an industry as dynamic and fast-changing as the aviation industry, no one is an island. Collaboration and teamwork are crucial skills to run an efficient and seamless airport operation, while faced with the multitude of factors every day that can impact the airside and landside. Being adaptable is also important – airport technology is constantly evolving and it’s important to leverage new tools to continuously improve the guest experience.