Ted Walters has over 25 years of experience working in Aviation Construction and Facility Management at John F. Kennedy Airport. Most recently, his work in Airport Terminal Building Systems, Baggage Handling Systems, and Passenger Boarding Bridges was showcased in the $1B Terminal 5/JetBlue Airways facility. Ted now serves as Director, Facilities & Technology at Terminal 7 for JFK Millennium Partners, the company selected by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey to build and operate the $4.2B Terminal 6 (T6) at JFK, with the first gates set to open in early 2026. Terminal 7 will then be demolished to make way for the second phase of Terminal 6 construction until its completion in early 2028. Ted is proud to serve the JFK community as a Rotarian with a special emphasis on supporting the Children’s Christmas Party for local youth and as President of the Alpha Sigma Fraternity in his local Bellmore, Long Island community. An avid boater and golfer, Ted loves spending time with business associates, friends, and family, pursuing camaraderie..
1 What are some challenges managing an aging airport facility through a world-class redevelopment?
Ted Walters: The biggest challenge in managing an aging facility during a major redevelopment is to ensure a safe and reliable daily operation while the new facility is being constructed. Thankfully, we have a very experienced JMP team and great partners in Terminal 7 who are all united in this commitment to safety and operational excellence. Led by JMP’s Senior Director of Operations, Robert Manniello, the operational phasing to facilitate T6 construction while minimizing its impact on T7 operations has been seamless.
2 What surprises you most about how airport facilities operate today compared to 20 years ago?
Ted Walters: Nothing surprises me anymore when operating building systems in an airport terminal! That said, the biggest changes in airport facility operations involve advances in baggage handling and building management systems.
3 How do you take advantage of local and MWBE companies in support of facility operations?
Ted Walters: Local and MWBE companies have been integral to the success of Terminal 7 through relationships developed during networking opportunities through the JFK Airport Chamber of Commerce and the JFK Airport Rotary Club.
4 What are some of the most exciting technology upgrades the new terminal is looking forward to with the redevelopment?
Ted Walters: T6 will make use of an Airport Terminal Operations Platform, which will incorporate AI technology, for example, in predicting likely gate changes or other necessary operational adjustments. Additional technology upgrades for passengers include automated baggage screening (via Automated Security Lanes) and the use of biometric technologies, such as Credential Authenticator Technology. These forward-looking technologies are some of the most exciting aspects of this redevelopment, and we can’t wait to see them in action!
5 Sustainability is top of mind for airport stakeholders. Which programs that you’ve implemented are paying off the most?
Ted Walters: Our decision to install LED lights throughout the Terminal has proven to be the most beneficial, contributing to a nearly 70 percent reduction in energy consumption. LED’s superior longevity compared with traditional lighting further enhances its value. Under the guidance of JMP’s Manager, Environment & Sustainability, Rishali Chaplot – we also recently introduced composting to reduce organic waste sent to landfills. Both of these programs have not only resulted in cost savings but also improved the airport’s environmental impact and stakeholder engagement, aligning with our broader sustainability objectives as a company.
