Frequently Asked Questions at John F. Kennedy Airport
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Answers to passenger questions
Covid: What to take into account when entering the United States?
As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S. arriving by air or arriving by land or sea no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.
Travel to or within US requirements
What is the fastest way to access to midtown Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn?
The LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) is a commuter train connecting Jamaica Station with Penn Station (Midtown Manhattan) as well as Atlantic Terminal (downtown Brooklyn) in 20 minutes (in both cases). Fares during Peak hours costs $10.75 and Off Peak $7.75. To get to Jamaica station from JFK airport terminals, you have to take the Airtrain (fare 8.25 USD - 10 minutes trip). The subway is a cheaper option (2.75USD plus the $8.25 Airtrain fare), but it takes between 50 and 55 minutes.
What is the taxi fare from JFK airport to Manhattan?
Flat Fare is $70 to the first destination (plus tolls and tip). The taximeter and receipt should reflect that this trip is a flat fare. Taxis impose a $5.00 surcharge during peak hours (4-8 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays), for a fare of $75. Learn more
Where are the Uber and Lyft Airport pickup location?
Lyft is available at the Cell Phone Lot and Limousine Lot and Uber pick up area is in arrivals or baggage claim area Terminals 1-4, and in departures level T5.
Is there free internet access?
Yes, there is free Wi-Fi internet access in all terminals. To connect, turn on Wi-Fi on your device, set wireless network to _Free JFK WiFi and select Free Unlimited WiFi and enjoy.
How to transfer between the terminals?
The 24-hour JFK AirTrain is the fastest and easiest way to move around JFK Airport. The system connects all passenger terminals to airport parking lots, the hotel shuttle pick-up area, the rental car center, and NYC’s public transportation network at Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations, where you can connect with the subway, the Long Island Rail Road, and public buses. AirTrain is free unless you start or end your journey at Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations. There, the fee is $8.25 USD. Learn More
How to connect JFK with Newark and Laguardia airports?
From JFK to LaGuardia run ETS Air Shuttle (718) 221-5341 and All County Express (800) 914-4223 Rates: (24 USD) - Journey Time: 45 to 60 minutes.
From JFK to Newark Liberty run the ETS Air Shuttle (share van 52 usd - 60 to 90 min).
What to do in case of a long layover?
There are many duty free shops (in terminals 1,4,5 and 7) and dining options in all terminals. JFK airport also offer a number of other amenities including Nursing suites, Beauty & Spa, Charging Stations, Service Animal & Pet Relief, Worship Spaces. In turn, there are several VIP lounges in all terminals with beverages, food, relax areas, etc and the TWA HOTEL in case you have several hours.
What to do in case of loss of valuables or luggage?
If you left your property on the plane or your checked baggage didn't show up you need to contact to your airline. If you left any items within the airport grounds (public and after security areas) fill this form. For items lost within the TSA security check area fill this form or call (718) 917-3999.
Is there a luggage storage service?
You will find this service in Terminals 1 and in T4 and is offered by SmarteCarte Storage. In Terminal 1 call 718-751-1770 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and in T4, the luggage storage service is available 24 hours a day in the Arrivals Hall - Accommodations Plus International Tel - (718) 751-4020. Book here
What to do in case of feeling lost, or with no money, passport or missing the flight?
In case of an extreme situation, the Traveler's Aid (a not-for-profit organization), furnishes both professional and volunteer staff who provide emergency assistance to customers who are lost, confused, uncertain, or who have lost airline tickets or traveling papers (passport, visa, certificate of birth, etc.), or with insufficient funds, separated from traveling companions. Also in case of the disabled or elderly traveling alone, or who incur other circumstances which would preclude them from continuing on to their final destination.
You can find Traveler's Aid Volunteers at the Welcome Center in each terminal at JFK. Their office number is (718) 656-4870.
Is there any free parking area in JFK airport?
For those picking up a passenger, there are free Cell Phone Lots located less than five minutes from all terminals and provides a convenient place to wait for arriving flights. As an alternative, the Kiss & Fly free zone located at the AirTrain JFK Lefferts Boulevard Station, is also a pick-up drop-off area. Kiss & Fly enables travelers to simply hop on AirTrain for a fast and 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 8. In addition, you can find ATMs in Terminals 1, 4, 7 and 8.
Are there designated areas for smoking at the airport?
Smoking is permitted in designated areas outside each terminal.