New York JFK International Airport

🚇 What is the best way to get to and from Manhattan?

For speed and comfort: the LIRR train from Jamaica station. To save money: the Subway. Both options require taking the AirTrain from your terminal first.

🤯 Is it as bad as they say?

JFK is an airport in the midst of a chaotic transformation. The current experience is marked by construction, hellish traffic, and long waits. It's not an "easy" airport, but with the right planning, it is totally manageable.

❌ What is the #1 mistake I should avoid?

Underestimating the time. Both for getting to the airport (due to traffic) and for going through security and immigration. The golden rule at JFK is: always add more time than you think you need.

🔁 How much time do I need for a connection?

If you are changing terminals, you need an absolute minimum of 4 hours. You will have to go through immigration (if coming from an international flight), pick up your luggage, take the AirTrain, and go through security again. Less time is extremely risky.

🚗 Traffic: Your Main Obstacle

The massive remodeling projects have turned the airport access roads into an unpredictable bottleneck. Relying on GPS travel times without considering the "JFK factor" is the most common and costly mistake.

Strategy: If you are driving, add at least an extra 60-90 minutes to your planning. The safest option is always to use public transportation: the AirTrain connected to the LIRR or the subway.

⏳ The Double Wait: Security and Immigration

TSA checks (when departing) and immigration (when arriving) are the biggest sources of frustration. Waits of over an hour are common, and a lack of staff is a constant complaint.

Strategy: For arrivals, download and use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app before you get in line; it can save you hours. For departures, there are no shortcuts: arrive with the recommended time and be mentally prepared for the wait.

😒 The Human Factor: Inconsistent Staff Treatment

From TSA personnel to airline and restaurant employees, the treatment is a lottery. Many travelers report abrupt, apathetic, or unprofessional interactions.

Strategy: Stay calm, have your documents always at hand, and be as clear and concise as possible. a patient and polite attitude can sometimes de-escalate a tense situation, but be prepared for very direct treatment.

💸 The "JFK Tax": Be Prepared for High Prices

Everything, from a bottle of water to a meal or a charger, has a considerable markup. The quality of the food, in particular, rarely justifies its cost.

Strategy: Bring an empty water bottle to fill at the fountains after the security check and pack your own snacks. You will save money and probably eat better.