Frequently Asked Questions at John F. Kennedy Airport

JFK New York airport faqs
Photo by Littleny - Istockphoto

Answers to passengers' questions

What is the fastest way to access downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn?

The LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) is a commuter train that connects Jamaica Station to Penn and Grand Central stations in Manhattan and Atlantic Terminal in downtown Brooklyn in approximately 20 minutes. Tickets during rush hour cost USD11.25 and the rest of the day USD8.25. To get to Jamaica Station from the JFK Airport terminals, you must take the AirTrain (USD8.50 fare - 10-minute ride). The subway is a cheaper option (USD2.90 plus the USD8.50 AirTrain fare), but it takes between 50 and 55 minutes.

What is the cab fare from JFK to Manhattan?

The flat rate is USD70.00 to the first destination (plus tolls and tips). The meter and receipt must reflect that this trip is a flat rate. Cabs impose a surcharge of USD5.00 during peak hours (4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on weekdays, excluding holidays), resulting in a fare of USD75.00. Learn more

Where are the Uber and Lyft pick-up areas?

Lyft is available in the Cell Phone Lots, while the Uber pick-up area is located outside the Arrivals Halls of Terminal 1 and 4, and the roof of the Orange parking garage of Terminal 7, with access from the AirTrain station.

Is there free internet access?

Yes, free Wi-Fi access is available in all terminals. To connect, turn on Wi-Fi on your device, set the wireless network to "_Free JFK WiFi" and select Free Unlimited WiFi.

How to transfer between terminals?

The AirTrain JFK operates 24 hours a day and is the fastest and easiest way to get around the airport. The system connects all passenger terminals to the parking garages, the hotel shuttle stop, the rental car center and New York's public transportation network at Jamaica and Howard Beach stations, where you can make connections to the subway, trains and public buses. The AirTrain is free unless you start or end your trip at Jamaica and Howard Beach stations. There, the fare is USD8.50. Learn More

How to connect JFK with Newark and LaGuardia airports?

From JFK to LaGuardia, you can use the services of All County Express (Tel +1 800 914 4223) or ETS Air Shuttle (Tel +1 718 221 5341). Fare: USD24.00 - Travel time: 45-60 minutes.

From JFK to Newark Airport operates ETS Air Shuttle (Tel +1 718 221 5341). Fare: USD52.00 - Time: 60-90 min.

What to do in case of a long layover?

There are many duty-free stores (in Terminals 1, 4, 5 and 7) and restaurants in all terminals. The airport also offers a number of other amenities, including areas for mothers with babies, beauty and spa, charging stations, relief areas for pets and service animals, prayer room. There are also several VIP lounges in all terminals with beverages, food, quiet areas. The TWA HOTEL, next to Terminal 5, is available in case you have to wait for several hours.

What to do in case of loss of valuables or luggage?

If you forgot any belongings on the plane or your checked baggage did not show up, you should contact your airline.

If you left an item inside the airport grounds (public and post-security areas), complete this form.

For items lost inside the TSA security screening area, complete this form or call Tel +1 718 917 3999.

Is there a left-luggage service?

You will find this service in Terminals 1 and 4, offered by SmarteCarte. In Terminal 1, call Tel +1 718 751 1770, and in Terminal 4 call Tel +1 718 916 8963. In Terminal 4, there is also an Accommodations Plus International office (Tel +1 718 751 4020) to store your luggage. Reservations

It is also offered in Terminal 8, provided by Meehgan Services (Tel +1 718 995 9292), in the Arrivals Hall.

What to do in case you feel lost or without money, passport or if you missed your flight?

In case of an extreme situation, Traveller's Aid (a non-profit organization), provides professional and volunteer staff to provide emergency assistance to clients who are lost, confused, unsure or have lost airline tickets or travel documents (passport, visa, birth certificate, etc.), or with insufficient funds, separated from travel companions. Also in the case of the disabled or elderly traveling alone, or incurring other circumstances that prevent them from continuing on to their final destination.

You can find traveler assistance volunteers at the Welcome Center in each terminal. Their office number is +1 718 656 4870.

Are there any free parking areas at JFK?

For those picking up a passenger, there are Cell Phone Lots located within 5 minutes of all terminals that provide a convenient place to wait for arriving flights. Alternatively, the Kiss & Fly Free Zone, located at the AirTrain JFK Lefferts Boulevard station, is also a passenger drop-off area. It allows travelers to simply hop on the AirTrain for a quick, free ride to their terminal. See parking details

Are there currency exchange desks?

There are several international currency exchange counters located in Terminals 1, 4 and 7. In addition, you can find ATMs in Terminals 1 and 4.

Are there designated smoking areas at the airport?

Smoking is permitted in designated areas outside each terminal.