Lois Larson
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, and Pennsylvania Station (Penn Station) is one of the world's busiest rail hubs. Travellers often need to get from JFK to Penn Station, and there are several ways to make the journey. The AirTrain, which departs from all terminals, can take passengers to Jamaica Station, where they can transfer to a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train to Penn Station. This option is the best value for money and takes about 35 minutes. Alternatively, passengers can take a taxi, a car rental, or a helicopter transfer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance between JFK Airport and Penn Station | Approximately 35 minutes by train |
| Transport options | AirTrain, NYC subway, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), NYC airport taxis, independent car rentals, helicopter |
| AirTrain cost | $8 |
| LIRR cost | $7.75-$10.75 |
| Total fare | $15.75-$18.75 |
| Cheapest option | AirTrain and NYC subway |
| Fastest option | AirTrain and LIRR |
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What You'll Learn
Getting from JFK to Penn Station by train
Pennsylvania Station, or Penn Station, is the main rail hub in New York City, located in Manhattan. There are several ways to get from JFK to Penn Station by train, including the Long Island Railroad (LIRR), the AirTrain, and the NYC subway.
The Long Island Railroad (LIRR)
The LIRR is a good value-for-money option for your trip from JFK to Penn Station. First, take the AirTrain at your landing terminal to Jamaica Station. The AirTrain runs 24/7, with a train arriving every 7-15 minutes, and the journey to Jamaica Station takes about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Jamaica Station, you can purchase your LIRR ticket from a vending machine or ticketing desk before boarding a train to Penn Station. The LIRR operates 24/7 as well, with a train arriving every 3 minutes during rush hours and every 5-20 minutes at other times. The journey from Jamaica Station to Penn Station takes around 20 minutes, making the total duration of the JFK-to-Penn-Station transfer approximately 35 minutes. The cost of the LIRR ticket depends on the time of day, with tickets priced at $10.75 during rush hours (6:00 am to 10:00 am) and $7.75 during off-peak hours, weekends, and holidays. For children between 6 and 12 years old, the ticket price is half of the regular fare, and children younger than 6 travel for free.
The AirTrain and NYC Subway
Another option for getting from JFK to Penn Station is to take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then transfer to the NYC subway. The AirTrain runs 24/7 and takes about 15 minutes to get to Jamaica Station, with trains arriving every 7-15 minutes. The subway from Jamaica Station to Penn Station takes about 40 minutes. The cost of the AirTrain is $8.50, and the subway fare is $2.90, for a total of $11.40. You can use a MetroCard to pay for both the AirTrain and the subway, but keep in mind that unlimited-ride MetroCards cannot be used for the AirTrain.
Taxi, Bus, and Other Options
In addition to the train options, you can also take a taxi or bus from JFK to Penn Station. Taxis are available outside the exits of each JFK terminal and offer a convenient but potentially pricier option. Alternatively, you can rent a car or use a professional shuttle service.
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AirTrain and LIRR ticket purchasing
To get from JFK Airport to Penn Station in Manhattan, you can take the AirTrain and then the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). The AirTrain runs 24/7, departing from all six New York airport terminals, and arrives at Jamaica Station in about 15 minutes. From there, you can take the LIRR train to Penn Station, which will take around 20 minutes.
There are several options for purchasing AirTrain and LIRR tickets. You can buy tickets in advance online, or at the station from a ticket machine or office. Ticket machines accept cash (up to $50 bills and coins, returning up to $17.75 in coin change), credit cards, and debit cards. Ticket offices accept cash, credit or debit cards, some transit benefit cards, and personal checks for certain LIRR tickets. You can also buy LIRR tickets onboard the train, but they will be more expensive.
The AirTrain journey costs $8 (or €8), or is free for rides within the airport complex. LIRR ticket prices vary depending on the time of day and how far you are travelling. During rush hours (6:00 am to 10:00 am), tickets from Jamaica Station to Penn Station are $10.75 (or €10.75). During off-peak hours, on weekends, and on holidays, tickets are $7.75 (or €7.75). During off-peak hours and weekends, you can also purchase a City Ticket for $5 (or €5).
You can also purchase tickets on your phone using the TrainTime app, which is available for Apple and Android devices. The app allows you to plan trips, purchase tickets, get train status and track locations, and chat with customer service representatives.
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AirTrain to Jamaica Station
The AirTrain is a light airport train that runs to and from all terminals at JFK Airport and Jamaica Station. The AirTrain runs every 7 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes at other times. The journey to Jamaica Station takes approximately 15 minutes. From Jamaica Station, passengers can transfer to Penn Station in Manhattan by taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). The LIRR operates 24/7, with a train every 3 minutes during rush hour and every 5-20 minutes during the rest of the day. The journey from Jamaica Station to Penn Station takes around 20 minutes.
Passengers can purchase tickets for the AirTrain at the landing terminal before boarding the train. The AirTrain journey costs $8.00 (or €8.00), but it is free for rides within the airport complex. Tickets for the LIRR can be purchased at Jamaica Station before boarding. During rush hours (6:00-10:00 am), LIRR tickets are priced at $10.75 (or €10.75), while during off-peak hours, weekends, and holidays, they cost $7.75 (or €7.75). There is also the option to purchase a CityTicket for $5.00 (or €5.00) during off-peak hours or $7.00 (or €7.00) during peak hours. A MetroCard is required for an extra $1.00 (or €1.00) and can be purchased at the same automatic vendors as the AirTrain and LIRR tickets just before the exit of the AirTrain stop at Jamaica Station.
Passengers can also opt for other means of transportation to get from JFK Airport to Penn Station, such as taxis, airport transfers, or car rentals. These options may be more expensive but could be more convenient, especially during peak hours or when travelling with luggage.
It is important to note that the total fare for the transfer from JFK Airport to Penn Station using the AirTrain and LIRR is approximately $18.75 during peak hours and $15.75 during off-peak hours, weekends, and holidays. This includes the cost of the AirTrain ticket, the LIRR ticket, and the MetroCard.
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Penn Station to JFK Airport via LIRR
Penn Station is a major transportation hub in New York City, providing easy access to JFK Airport via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your way from Penn Station to JFK Airport using the LIRR service.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Reach Penn Station: Depending on your location, you can take the subway, bus, or train to get to Penn Station.
- Purchase an LIRR Ticket: Once you arrive at Penn Station, head to the ticket vending machines located throughout the station. Select 'JFK Airport' as your destination and follow the on-screen prompts to purchase your LIRR ticket. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, with rush hour tickets costing more. You can also purchase tickets onboard the LIRR, but they are priced higher.
- Board the LIRR towards Jamaica Station: The LIRR operates 24/7, with varying frequencies throughout the day. The journey from Penn Station to Jamaica Station takes approximately 20 minutes.
- Transfer to the AirTrain at Jamaica Station: Once you arrive at Jamaica Station, follow the signs to the AirTrain. The AirTrain Jamaica Line will take you directly to JFK Airport. The AirTrain operates every 7 minutes during peak hours and at 7-15 minute intervals otherwise. The ride to the airport takes about 15 minutes.
- Arrive at JFK Airport: The AirTrain serves all terminals at JFK Airport. The entire journey from Penn Station to JFK Airport typically takes around 35 minutes.
Additional Tips:
- The LIRR offers a more comfortable ride compared to the subway, with overhead luggage racks available for smaller baggage.
- Consider purchasing your LIRR ticket in advance to avoid potential lines at the vending machines.
- If you prefer a more direct and convenient option, you can also take a taxi or shuttle service from Penn Station to JFK Airport, although this may be more expensive.
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Taxi, transfer, and car rental options
There are several options for travelling between JFK Airport and Penn Station, including taxis, transfer services, and car rentals.
Taxi
Taxis are a convenient and classic option for travelling between JFK Airport and Penn Station. Official taxi stands can be easily found just outside the exits of each JFK terminal. The well-known yellow cabs offer 24/7 service to and from the airport. The cost of a taxi ride from JFK to Penn Station is typically around $52, plus various surcharges and tolls, which can bring the total cost to $75 or more. It's important to note that waiting times for taxis at JFK can be up to 30 minutes, and traffic jams can significantly increase the duration of the journey.
Transfer
Transfer services, such as Welcome Pickups, offer a comfortable and safe experience for travellers. These services can be selected based on user reviews from platforms like Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot. Additionally, the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) provides a cost-effective option for those looking for a rail transfer to Penn Station. The AirTrain, which runs every 7 minutes during peak hours, can be accessed from any JFK terminal and connects to the LIRR for the journey into Manhattan.
Car Rental
Car rental services are available at JFK Airport, providing travellers with the convenience of independent travel. All major car rental companies and many local providers are present at the airport. Rental car counters or courtesy telephones with instructions on contacting the companies can be found on the Arrivals Level of all terminal buildings, usually near the baggage carousels. Reservating a car in advance and picking it up at the airport can save time and avoid the hassle of arranging transportation into the city before renting a car. Rates for car rentals at JFK start at $25/day.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to get from JFK to Penn Station is by taking the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then boarding the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Penn Station. The AirTrain costs $8, and the LIRR ticket price varies depending on the time of day. During rush hours, tickets are $10.75, and during off-peak hours, weekends, and holidays, they are $7.75.
The AirTrain runs every 7-15 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to get to Jamaica Station. The LIRR train from Jamaica Station to Penn Station operates 24/7, with a 3-5 minute frequency during rush hours and a 5-20 minute frequency at other times. The journey from Jamaica Station to Penn Station lasts 20 minutes, making the total duration of the JFK-to-Penn-Station transfer around 35 minutes.
You can purchase your LIRR ticket at Jamaica Station or onboard the train, but at a higher price. The AirTrain ticket and the LIRR ticket are separate, and you will need both. You can buy your LIRR ticket in advance to save time. You can also purchase a City Ticket for $5 during off-peak hours and on weekends.
Alternative options include taking a taxi, a car rental, or the subway. The subway is the cheapest option, but it is also slower and has less space for luggage. You can also take a helicopter transfer, which will get you from NYC to JFK in under 5 minutes, but it is more expensive, costing $195 per seat.
