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New York, United States · 20 km (12 miles) southeast of Manhattan

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

John F. Kennedy International Airport serves New York and the surrounding region. Top 30 busiest airports worldwide. Located 20 km (12 miles) southeast of Manhattan, it handles domestic and international flights with 4 terminals. Major international hub for American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue

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Top 30 busiest airports worldwide
Passenger volume
4
Terminals
20 km
From city centre
24/7
Airport operation
3+
Airlines operating

Terminal layout

John F. Kennedy International Airport operates 4 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal and gate information, and allow sufficient time for transfers if connecting between flights.

Terminal info

Multiple terminals handle domestic and international flights. Terminal maps, signage, and information desks are available throughout the airport.

  • Check your boarding pass for the correct terminal
  • Free shuttle or walking connections between terminals
  • Allow 20–30 minutes for terminal transfers
  • Each terminal has check-in, security, and gates

Transfer between terminals

Follow the purple "Flight Connections" signs. Shuttle buses run every 10–15 minutes between terminals. Walking paths are available where terminals are connected.

Navigation tips

Getting around John F. Kennedy International Airport is straightforward with clear signage in multiple languages.

  • Information desks: Located in each terminal arrivals and departures hall
  • Airport app: Many airports offer apps with real-time gate info
  • Ask staff: Airport ambassadors wear distinctive uniforms
  • Free Wi-Fi: Available for checking flight status online

Stay connected

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals. No registration required for basic access. Premium high-speed options available for purchase.

Getting to & from the airport

Transport options connecting John F. Kennedy International Airport to New York and surrounding areas. Prices and durations are approximate — check current fares before travel.

ModeDetailsDurationPrice (approx)Notes
Train / Rail AirTrain JFK - connects to NYC subway and Long Island Rail Road Varies Check current schedules and fares before travel.
Taxi / Rideshare Taxi, Uber, Lyft - $60-80 to Manhattan Varies $60-80 Check current schedules and fares before travel.
Bus / Shuttle Bus services - MTA Bus, express buses Varies Check current schedules and fares before travel.
Car Rental Car rental available at all terminals Varies Check current schedules and fares before travel.

Planning your journey

Rush-hour traffic can significantly extend travel times. For early morning flights, pre-book a taxi or rideshare. Public transport may have reduced service late at night and on weekends — check schedules in advance.

Emergency Numbers

24/7 emergency services in United States

Emergency Numbers
24/7 emergency services
Emergency
911
Police
911
Ambulance
911

Customs & Duty-Free

Arrival regulations for United States

Customs & Duty-Free
Arrival regulations
Alcohol allowance
1 L spirits or 2 L wine per person (intl arrivals). Domestic duty-free limits vary by state.
Tobacco allowance
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 2 kg tobacco
Currency declaration
Declare over $10,000
Prohibited items
Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, soil, plants without USDA permit. Weapons and replicas require declaration.

Mobile Connectivity

Local operators & SIM cards in United States

Mobile Connectivity
Local operators & SIM cards
Major operators:
SIM cards
Prepaid SIMs at airport kiosks. Tourist plans $30-60/month. eSIM via Airalo, Holafly.

Facilities and services

John F. Kennedy International Airport provides a range of passenger facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience.

Free Wi

Free Wi-Fi throughout

Multiple dining and shopping options

Multiple dining and shopping options

Lounges for premium passengers

Lounges for premium passengers

Currency exchange and ATMs

Currency exchange and ATMs

24/7 operations

24/7 operations

Need assistance?

Information desks are located in the arrivals and departures halls. Staff can help with directions, lost property, accessibility requests, and general enquiries. Most airports also offer passenger assistance services for travellers with reduced mobility — book at least 48 hours in advance through your airline.

Passenger tips by type

Practical advice tailored to different traveller profiles passing through John F. Kennedy International Airport.

First-time visitors

  • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before international flights.
  • Download the airline app for real-time gate and boarding updates.
  • Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them at security and the gate.
  • This airport has 4 terminals — check your boarding pass and allow 20–30 minutes for transfers.

Transit & connections

  • Check if your connection requires terminal transfer — allow extra time.
  • Stay airside if possible to avoid re-clearing security.
  • Look for flight connection desks if your incoming flight is delayed.

Families with children

  • Family lanes are usually available at security — look for signs.
  • Baby changing facilities are located throughout the terminal.
  • Bring snacks and entertainment for children during waits.

Business travellers

  • Priority security lanes may be available with business-class tickets or elite status.
  • Lounge access included with many premium tickets — check your boarding pass.
  • Power outlets and USB charging are available at most gates and seating areas.

Airport-specific information

Detailed information about John F. Kennedy International Airport terminals, transport, facilities, and local travel tips.

Terminals: Five active terminals (1, 4, 5, 7, 8), 130 gates total. Terminals in U-shaped pattern. AirTrain connects all terminals. Terminal 1 (A380-capable, consortium of Air France/JAL/Korean Air/Lufthansa). Terminal 4 (Schiphol Group-operated, A380-capable). Terminals 5 (JetBlue), 7 (British Airways), 8 (American/Delta). Many inter-terminal connections require exiting security and using AirTrain.

Transport: AirTrain JFK to Howard Beach (subway) and Jamaica (LIRR/subway). Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) and JFK Expressway access. Q3 bus to Terminal 8. Q10/Q80/B15 to Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain station. Taxis and for-hire vehicles (NYC TLC licensed). Parking for 17,000+ vehicles.

Facilities: Multiple lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants. Free Wi-Fi. Tesla Superchargers at travel plaza.

Local tips: New York JFK Airport. AirTrain to Jamaica for LIRR/subway fastest. Terminals 1 and 4 A380-capable. Van Wyck Expressway access. Inter-terminal connections often require re-clearing security. 130 gates total.

Airlines and routes

Major international hub for American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue

Use the flight search to find routes from JFK to your destination. Compare prices, airlines, and schedules to find the best option for your trip.

Search flights from JFK

Frequently asked questions

For international flights, arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Domestic flights typically require 1–2 hours. Allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays.

AirTrain JFK - connects to NYC subway and Long Island Rail Road. Check our transport table below for all options, durations, and approximate costs.

Yes, John F. Kennedy International Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal buildings. Look for the airport network on your device and connect without registration for basic access.

John F. Kennedy International Airport operates 4 terminals. Check your boarding pass for terminal information. Free shuttle buses and moving walkways connect the terminals — allow at least 20–30 minutes for transfers.