Ruth Haines
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is an indispensable part of global travel and the region's economy, handling over 62 million passengers a year, supporting 149,000 jobs, and generating more than $33 billion in sales and $14 billion in wages. The airport, which is currently undergoing a $19 billion transformation, is not a federal building, but it does have federal government connections. The airport's dedicated rail network, AirTrain JFK, serves Federal Circle, the JFK long-term parking lot, and provides access to federal services like the New York City Subway and MTA Bus services.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | John F. Kennedy International Airport |
| Location | New York |
| Number of Terminals | 5 |
| Terminal Numbers | 1, 4, 5, 7, 8 |
| Number of Gates | 130 |
| Terminal Arrangement | Deformed U-shaped wavy pattern |
| Terminal Management | Airlines or consortiums of the airlines serving them |
| Terminal Operators | Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, American Airlines, Schiphol Group |
| Terminal Redevelopments | Terminal 8, Terminal 4, Terminal 1, Terminal 6 |
| Rail Network | AirTrain JFK |
| Bus Services | Q3, Q6, Q7, Q10, B15 |
| Annual Passengers | Over 62 million |
| Jobs Supported | 149,000 |
| Sales Generated | $33 billion |
| Wages Generated | $14 billion |
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What You'll Learn
JFK's terminals
John F. Kennedy International Airport, commonly known as JFK Airport, is located in the Jamaica neighbourhood of Queens, 16 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan. The airport features five passenger terminals and four runways. It is primarily accessible via car, bus, shuttle, or other vehicle transit.
Until the early 1990s, each terminal was known by the primary airline that served it, except for Terminal 4, which was known as the International Arrivals Building. In the early 1990s, all terminals were given numbers except for the Tower Air terminal, which sat outside the Central Terminals area and was not numbered. The terminal buildings, except for the former Tower Air terminal, are arranged in a deformed U-shaped wavy pattern around a central area containing parking, a power plant, and other airport facilities. The terminals are connected by the AirTrain system and access roads.
JFK's Terminal 1 opened on May 28, 1998, and Terminal 4, a $1.4 billion replacement for the International Arrivals Building, opened on May 24, 2001. Terminal 4 announced an expansion of its Arts & Culture program in 2024, including a digital and static photography exhibit in collaboration with the Cradle of Aviation Museum, a mural representing Queens, a series of photographs by Terminal 4 employees, and the first-ever freestanding hologram device in an airport. JetBlue's Terminal 5, which incorporates the TWA Flight Center, opened in 2008 and functions as the airline's operating base at JFK. Terminals 8 and 9 were demolished and rebuilt as Terminal 8 for the American Airlines hub.
The AirTrain JFK people-mover system, which began construction in 1998, links each airport terminal to the New York City Subway and the Long Island Rail Road at Howard Beach and Jamaica. While AirTrain travel within airport property is complimentary, external transfers are paid via OMNY or MetroCard and provide access to the subway, Long Island Rail Road, and MTA Bus services.
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AirTrain JFK
The AirTrain JFK is an 8.1-mile-long (approximately 13 km) elevated transport system that serves the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City. The driverless system operates 24/7 and consists of three lines and nine stations within the New York City borough of Queens. It was constructed to provide a direct rail link to the airport, allowing for seamless connections to the New York City Subway and the Long Island Rail Road.
The history of the AirTrain JFK dates back to the 1940s when a rail connection to the airport was first proposed. However, due to various factors, including funding issues and opposition from influential figures like New York City parks commissioner Robert Moses, these plans were not realised until decades later. In the 1990s, there was a push for a direct rail link again, but it faced political unpopularity and economic challenges. As a result, the plan was downsized to a people mover system, similar to the AirTrain Newark at Newark Airport.
Construction of the AirTrain JFK began in 1998, and it opened on December 17, 2003, after facing several delays and even a fatal crash during testing. The system has consistently exceeded passenger projections, carrying 9,930,400 passengers in 2024, or about 30,700 per weekday as of the fourth quarter of that year.
The AirTrain JFK provides convenient connections within the airport and to external transit options. All lines stop at each passenger terminal, Federal Circle, the long-term parking lot, and the multimodal rapid transit stations: Howard Beach and Jamaica. Travel within the airport property is complimentary, while external transfers at Howard Beach and Jamaica incur a fare. These stations provide access to the New York City Subway, Long Island Rail Road, and MTA Bus services.
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Taxis and FHVs
Taxis and for-hire vehicles (FHVs) serving JFK are licensed by the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission. In 2019, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) approved the implementation of "airport access fee" surcharges on FHV and taxi trips, with the revenue going towards supporting the agency's capital programs.
JFK airport taxis are available 24/7 outside each of the airport's terminals, providing comfortable and quality transfer services to destinations in New York City. They offer door-to-door services and are a safer option than trusting individual drivers who may approach you inside the airport. While New York public transportation is considered fast and effective, JFK airport taxis offer several advantages, such as operating on a 24-hour basis, providing door-to-door services, and offering safe storage for your luggage in the vehicle's trunk.
The official taxi stands for JFK airport taxis can be found right outside the airport terminals, and you can also pre-book a taxi in advance or at the last minute. JFK airport taxis offer a variety of vehicles, from standard sedans for individual travellers to spacious SUVs for families or groups. The taxis are equipped with modern amenities to enhance your ride, and they provide timely pickups, courteous drivers, and clean, comfortable vehicles to ensure a safe journey.
When considering the cost of a JFK airport taxi, it is important to factor in potential extra charges that can raise the actual tariff. For example, there is a $1.25 airport access fee imposed by PANYNJ for JFK airport pick-ups, a $2.50 New York State Congestion Surcharge for trips passing through Manhattan south of 96th Street, and a $4.50 surcharge for rides during peak hours (4:00 pm – 8:00 pm) on weekdays. Additionally, there is a $0.50 extra charge for late-night transfers between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am for airport rides to destinations other than Manhattan. While the ride from JFK Airport to Manhattan typically has a flat fee of $52 for a 45-minute transfer, the total cost, including all potential extra fees, can range from $65 to $75.
It is recommended to book a taxi with a reputable company, as individual drivers may overcharge for airport transfer services. JFK airport taxis accept payments in cash, debit, or credit card, providing flexibility and convenience for travellers.
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Terminal 4's Arts & Culture program
Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport has expanded its Arts & Culture program to include a diverse mix of art, including digital and static photography exhibits, murals, and tech-enabled interactive exhibits. The program is a collaboration between JFKIAT, the operator of Terminal 4, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. It aims to support the local community and provide enriching experiences for travellers that epitomize New York City.
The digital and static photography exhibit is in collaboration with the Cradle of Aviation Museum and features a series of photographs captured by T4 employees who share their passion for aviation. The exhibit showcases the employees' unique perspectives and stories, connecting viewers to the community around them. Another highlight of the program is a mural by local artist Zeehan Wazed, located at Gate B25. The mural reflects the hustle and bustle of Queens and its diverse communities, creating a sense of place and belonging for passengers travelling through T4.
In addition to the photography exhibit and mural, Terminal 4 has also introduced a holographic experience in partnership with Proto hologram. This installation brings animals from the Bronx Zoo to life, including sloths, alligators, pelicans, and warthogs. The hologram is part of a partnership between JFKIAT and the Wildlife Conservation Society, which aims to educate travellers about wildlife and nature conservation. The installation also includes micro-videos and a short film showcasing the work of the Wildlife Conservation Society around the world.
The Arts & Culture program at Terminal 4 is committed to fostering a vibrant and welcoming environment that celebrates the diverse communities of New York City. The program has also collaborated with the Museum of the City of New York, Delta Air Lines, and the Terminal Four Airline Consortium to bring a range of installations, exhibits, and performances throughout the year that represent the full New York City experience.
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JFK's redevelopment
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is undergoing a $19 billion overhaul, including the construction of two new terminals and the expansion and modernisation of several existing terminals. The airport is being transformed into a "world-class gateway" and a "premier global gateway to the world", with improved infrastructure and transportation access.
The redevelopment of JFK is being carried out through a public-private partnership, with $15 billion in private investment for new terminals and $3.9 billion in Port Authority funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is also contributing its expertise, building on its experience with upgrades at Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia International Airport.
The new Terminal 6 is a significant part of the project, with Governor Kathy Hochul marking a major construction milestone in 2024 with a steel topping-out ceremony. The new terminal is expected to create thousands of new jobs and provide economic opportunities for local, diverse small businesses in the Queens community.
Terminals 1, 4, and 8 have also undergone expansion and modernisation. Terminal 4, in particular, has seen a $1.5 billion, 10-gate, 150,000 sq ft concourse extension, with additional parking positions, an extra domestic baggage claim carousel, and an expanded terminal size. Terminal 8 has seen a $125 million commercial redevelopment, including a "great hall" with over 60 new shopping and restaurant offerings.
In addition to the terminal improvements, the redevelopment includes a new, simplified airport roadway network, a state-of-the-art ground transportation centre, and enhanced electrical infrastructure. The AirTrain JFK, the airport's dedicated rail network, connects all the terminals and provides access to external transit options, including the New York City Subway and Long Island Rail Road.
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Frequently asked questions
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is not a federal building. It is an international airport with five active terminals that can handle international arrivals.
JFK airport is the busiest airport in the US for international travel, handling over 62 million passengers annually.
The primary means of accessing JFK airport is via the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) or the JFK Expressway, which are connected to the Belt Parkway.
The AirTrain JFK is a dedicated rail network that connects all terminals within the airport. It also provides access to the New York City Subway, Long Island Rail Road, and MTA Bus services.
Yes, the Port Authority is in the midst of a $19 billion transformation of JFK airport into a world-class global gateway. This includes the construction of new terminals, expansion and modernisation of existing terminals, improved roadways, and the addition of local retail and dining options.
