Passengers are getting an early glimpse of what’s to come at Jersey Airport, as Ports of Jersey releases the first concept images of the new Departure Lounge transformation – a project that promises a brighter, more comfortable, and distinctly local experience for travellers.
The newly revealed visuals showcase a fresh and modern design that captures the spirit of Jersey – combining natural tones, softer lighting, and textures inspired by the island’s coastline, countryside, and architecture.
The redevelopment aims to make the journey through the airport smoother and more enjoyable, with more seating options, improved flow, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the island’s identity.
“We’re really excited to share these first images of the redesigned Departure Lounge,” said Matt Thomas, CEO of Ports of Jersey. “This project is about creating a space that feels relaxed, functional, and unmistakably Jersey – somewhere passengers can start or end their journey feeling at ease.”
Behind-the-scenes progress
While much of the work so far has been happening out of sight, Phase 1 began in September and is already laying the groundwork for visible changes in the months ahead. Early construction has focused on:
- Reconfiguring back-office areas to create new passenger walkways
- Relocating seating zones to allow for future improvements
- Installing a temporary café to maintain food service
- Retiring older infrastructure to make way for modern facilities
Throughout the redevelopment, the airport remains fully operational, with key amenities – including World Duty Free – open as normal.
Designed around passengers
At the heart of this transformation is the island community. The design has been shaped by a series of “Sense of Place” workshops, which brought together business representatives, tourism partners, charities, and frequent travellers to explore what they most value about Jersey – and what they want from their airport experience.
Fiona Brennan at Brighter Futures, said, “It was really important for Brighter Futures to be part of this project because we work with between 150 and 170 families every week, and their voices truly matter – they’re the ones who will be using the airport. For many of our families, travelling with young children can be a challenge, and having facilities that make that experience easier, more comfortable and affordable makes a huge difference.
“Often with large projects, people can feel that things are done to them, rather than with them. This has been different. Ports of Jersey listened to our families, involved us in the design process, and took their ideas seriously. That collaboration shows a real commitment to creating an airport that reflects Jersey’s values – one that cares about families and listens to its community.”
These collaborative sessions have played a key role in ensuring that every detail of the redesign – from the materials and lighting to the artwork and flow of the space – reflects the character, warmth, and identity of Jersey.
“It’s been fantastic to be involved in shaping something so important for Jersey’s future,” said Lee Madden, President of the Jersey Chamber of Commerce. “The new airport will be a generational project – a place islanders can be proud of and visitors will remember. The innovation, design, and sense of community make it more than just a terminal; it’s a true hub that reflects who we are and where we’re going.”
The broader design process has also been guided by public feedback, community meetings, and passenger insights gathered over the past year. Travellers said they wanted more comfort, more local character, and spaces that feel calm and inclusive.
The new lounge will include:
- Expanded dining and retail options
- Quiet areas for relaxation or work, including a new mezzanine level with views of the runway
- A welcoming family zone, designed in collaboration with Brighter Futures
- A Sunflower Room to support passengers with hidden disabilities
First look: concept visuals
The six newly released concept images give a closer look at how the new space will come together:
- Exit Security Screening – featuring a granite wall that subtly conceals the security office, complemented by native plants and a warm Jèrriais greeting to welcome travellers. A Flight Information Display (FID) confirms gate details and time to departure, while native hanging birds provide gentle wayfinding cues.
Comfortable low-level granite wall seating offers a place to wait for travel companions or put shoes back on, with toilets and drinking water conveniently located nearby.
- Entrance to World Duty Free (WDF) – a walkthrough experience with an alternative route for passengers with assisted travel needs if required.
- Leaving WDF – “Make Jersey Land” – celebrates Genuine Jersey products and local identity.
- Double-height Departure Lounge – features a Martello Tower–inspired lift connecting to the new mezzanine level, offering views across the runway. This area includes:
- Dedicated spaces for passengers with additional needs
- A family area designed with Brighter Futures
- An Assisted Travel Lounge, Sensory Room, First Aid Room, and Multi-Faith Room
- Timber-clad columns with local planting evoking Jersey’s woodland, and grass-like carpets with sandy walkways reminiscent of island coastal paths
- Access to Genuine Jersey shopping, food and beverage outlets, and the No 1 Lounge
- Upstairs Work Area and Viewing Space – offering a spacious, light-filled environment with panoramic runway views, connected to the Work Area (being developed with the Chamber of Commerce) and the No 1 Lounge’s additional seating.
- Celebration of Jersey Land – bright and spacious with a mix of comfortable seating, native planting, and timber elements that frame views over Jersey’s landscape.
Looking ahead
This transformation forms part of Ports of Jersey’s long-term investment in creating a safe, sustainable, and customer-focused airport – one that celebrates the island and the people who live, work, and travel here.
The mezzanine level, providing public views over the runway, represents a key public benefit of the redevelopment.
These images are concept visuals, and Ports of Jersey continues to work with stakeholders to finalise key elements such as wayfinding and interior details. Collaboration continues with:
- Brighter Futures on the family area
- Chamber of Commerce on the Work Area
- ArtHouse Jersey on integrating art that reflects Jersey’s uniqueness
- And through ongoing Sense of Place workshops, ensuring the final design truly embodies the island’s character and community values
The first phase is expected to open in summer 2026 with the whole new departure lounge by summer 2027.