A 2025 Guide to JFK Airport

by Nick Hagan / March 27, 2025

Estimated reading time: 16 minutes

New York City is home to three major airports, John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR). JFK stands out as the busiest, welcoming over 55 million passengers a year. With five active terminals and more than 90 airlines, it connects travelers to destinations across the globe. Located in Queens, just 16 miles from Manhattan, JFK is a major hub for both domestic and international flights. To navigate it smoothly, use our handy guide along with the JFK Airport map.

JFK Airport history

JFK started life nicknamed Idlewild, due to the new facility being built over a large area of marshland including the Idlewild Beach Golf Course. 

From the planning stage onward it had big ambitions to match the Big Apple, intended to be the world’s largest and most efficient airport. And as early as 1954 it was living up to its high standards, boasting the highest number of international flights worldwide.

In December 1963, little over a month after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the airport was renamed in memoriam. By this time JFK was the second-busiest airport in the US, and would go on to become the jewel in New York’s air hub crown, alongside sibling airports Newark and LaGuardia.

The airport’s position as an international powerhouse remains as strong as ever, and it continues to play host to exciting new aerospace innovations and offerings. After the iconic Concorde trans-Atlantic flights stopped in 2003, JFK became the first site to welcome the Airbus A380 in 2007, the world’s largest passenger jet famous for its double-decker interior design. Since 2020, JFK has also hosted the world’s longest flight route. The New York to Singapore journey covers nine-and-a-half thousand miles, lasting between 18 and 19 hours.

In line with New York’s own large-scale ambitions, JFK Airport remains the busiest international commercial airport on the North American continent. It’s also one of the speediest airports to exit from, on average you’ll be outside and on your way to the big city lights in just 41 minutes.

Where is JFK Airport?

Address: Jamaica, NY 11430

Phone: +1 718-244-4444

How to get to JFK Airport

JFK has plenty of public transportation links if you’re not driving; simply choose the most convenient one from the following list.

NYC Subway: The world famous New York City Subway will get you to the airport in classic style - simply ride to Jamaica or Howard Beach station before you hop on the AirTrain, JFK’s dedicated inter-terminal railway. Depending on where you get on, you’re looking at a 60 to 90 minute journey.

The subway is recommended for those traveling from outside of Midtown Manhattan or Brooklyn, and is one of the most affordable options going - just $2.90 for the subway and then the $8.50 AirTrain fare, amounting to $11.40.

If you opt for this route do take a moment to think about how much luggage you have - it can get pretty hectic out there!

Long Island Railroad (LIRR): In need of speed? The LIRR is famed for its smooth and fast delivery of passengers from Penn Station, Grand Central or Atlantic Terminal - taking just 20 minutes to breeze into Jamaica Station. It’s an ideal option if you’re spending time in Midtown Manhattan or Downtown Brooklyn. 

Buy your ticket for $5 off-peak or $7 on-peak, using a ticket vending machine at the station or via the TrainTime app.

Buses: A variety of bus services offer routes from the Big Apple to JFK. The New York City Express Bus provides a frequent, non-stop service from Grand Central and Penn Station, taking one to two hours depending on traffic. Check the price before you board.

Alternatively, Metro Bus operates routes Q3, Q6 and Q10, connecting Kew Gardens Union Turnpike Station and other points to JFK.

Book a Blacklane: Need a breather from the big city hustle and bustle? Consider the comfort and quality of a Blacklane chauffeured ride. We provide reliable chauffeur services, guaranteeing that you arrive in and depart from New York in professional style.

JFK Airport parking

As one of the USA’s most famous international airports, it’s no surprise that JFK caters to a wide range of parking needs, covering both short-term stop offs and longer-term stays. However, be warned that JFK was recently found to be one of the most expensive airports for parking - meaning there could be money to be saved with a professional car service.

Depending on which terminal you fly from, choose from JFK’s multicolored array of garages. The Green, Blue, Yellow, Orange and Red garages include a variety of amenities, including charging points for electric vehicles and shuttle services to the airport. Depending on which one you opt for, you’re looking at $4 or $6 per half hour, maxing out at $70 or $80 per day.

For short-term parking, consider Lot 9 - this economy option costs just $29 for the first 24 hours, then $10 an hour after.

Or if you want the best for your whip, premium long-term parking might be the way to go. These spaces are closer to the airport proper, costing between $50 and $65 a day.

Off-site parking

If you’re not fussy about being close to the terminal, and would rather save your pennies, a variety of off-site parking spots are available for as little as $14 a day. Various private operators provide highly secure lots where your vehicle can remain for as long as needed.

Check out Park Plus JFK, SmartPark JFK and AirPark JFK to find off-site options to suit your needs.

JFK Airport terminal overview

JFK currently comprises five terminals - T1, T4, T5, T7 and T8, with a sixth scheduled to open in 2026. The airport is actually wrapped around a main road, giving the overall layout of the facility a U shape.

Perhaps unsurprisingly for such a vast and longstanding hub, each terminal building has its own vibe, from the uniquely-designed JetBlue terminal (T5) complete with outdoor roof deck, to the enormous T4 and T8 buildings, which host many of the big international carriers and come complete with complexes of shops and amenities.

Transport between terminals at JFK is accomplished by way of the AirTrain, which offers passengers a free ride for inter-terminal transfers.

Airlines flying out of JFK Airport

Knowing what terminal you're flying into or out of can save you a lot of time, and reduce your travel stress. Plan ahead by finding your airline on this list.

Terminal 1

• Air China

• Air France 

• Air New Zealand

• Air Serbia

• Air Senegal

• Asiana Airlines

• Austrian Airlines

• Azores Airlines

• Brussels Airlines

• Cayman Airways

• China Eastern

• Eastern Airlines

• EgyptAir

• EVA Air

• Flair Airlines

• ITA Airlines

• Korean Air 

• Lufthansa

• Neos

• Philippine Airlines

• Royal Air Maroc

• Saudi Arabian Airlines

• Scandinavian Airlines

• SWISS

• TAP Portugal

• Turkish Airlines

• Viva Aerobus

• Volaris

Terminal 4

• Aeromexico

• Air Europa

• Air India

• Avianca 

• China Airlines 

• Copa Airlines

• Delta

• El Al Israel Airlines 

• Emirates 

• Etihad Airlines

• Hawaiian Airlines

• Kenya Airways 

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• LATAM

• Singapore Airlines (also uses Terminals 1, 5 and 7)

• Uzbekistan Airways 

• Virgin Atlantic

• WestJet

• Xiamen Airlines

Terminal 5

• Cape Air

• JetBlue Airways 

Terminal 7

• Aer Lingus (also uses Terminal 5)

• Air Canada

• Alaska Airlines

• ANA (All Nippon)

• Condor

• Ethiopian Airlines

• Frontier Airlines

• HiSky Europe

• Icelandair 

• Kuwait Airways

• LOT

• Norse Atlantic Airways

• Sun Country Airlines

Terminal 8

• American Airlines 

• British Airways

• Cathay Pacific

• China Southern

• Finnair

• Iberia

• Japan Airlines

• Level

• Qantas

• Qatar Airways

• Royal Jordanian

Lounges at JFK Airport

Waiting for your connection or trying to make the most of a layover or delayed flight?

Each of JFK's terminals hosts exclusive airport lounges where you can freshen up, grab a bite to eat and relax. 

Terminal 1 lounges

Air France – KLM Lounge

At this classy continental lounge, travelers dine on French cuisine at the gourmet buffet and casual brasserie, with Night Service available for those on overnight flights.

The La Prairie Spa, inside the lounge, offers massages, facials, and other beauty treatments, which you can reserve upon arrival. Free Wi-Fi helps you stay connected, and showers are available when you need to freshen up. The lounge is located near Gate 1.

Access:

• Priority Pass members

• Air France first- and business-class travelers

• Elite-level Flying Blue and SkyTeam members

• Day passes may be available

KAL Business Class Lounge

Run by Korean Air, this lounge near Gate 3 offers a cold buffet, comfortable seating, and expansive views of the tarmac. Workstations come with printers and copiers to help you get things done, and showers are available if you need to freshen up.

Access:

• Priority Pass members

• SKYPASS members

• KAL first- and business-class passengers

Lufthansa Lounge

Divided into three sections, Senator, business class, and first class, Lufthansa’s JFK lounge offers hot and cold buffets, limited device-charging stations, and a Wining and Dining floor for First Class and Senator travelers, where an à la carte menu and premium drinks are served.

Access:

• Lufthansa premium-class passengers

• Star Alliance elite flyers

Primeclass Lounge

Boasting sleek décor and 4,300 square feet of space, JFK Terminal 1’s Primeclass Lounge is a great spot to relax before your flight. The well-stocked buffet includes both savory and dessert options, and your visit comes with two complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Other amenities include hot showers, workstations, and panoramic runway views.

Access:

• Priority Pass members

• Day passes available for $66

Turkish Airlines Lounge

 Between Gates 2 and 3, the Turkish Airlines Lounge features long, comfortable sofas, wooden floors, and a self-serve buffet offering Turkish delicacies like cheese pastries, olives, and soups. Large windows provide expansive runway views.

Access:

• Priority Pass members

• Star Alliance Gold members

SWISS Business Class Lounge

A smaller lounge with traditional seating and reclining loungers, offering a selection of refreshments before takeoff.

Access:

• Business- and first-class passengers

• Star Alliance elite flyers

VIPOne Lounge

Positioned before security, VIPOne Lounge provides fast-track security clearance for travelers who hate long waits. The interior is sleek and modern, with a small buffet and an à la carte menu available via QR code.

Access:

• Priority Pass members

• Day passes available

Terminal 4

Centurion Lounge (American Express)

Just beyond security, this two-floor lounge features premium bars, a speakeasy, and an extensive gourmet menu.

New addition: The Equinox Body Lab wellness service has been replaced by Blue Roast by American Express, offering complimentary espresso drinks and cold brew.

Access:

• Amex Platinum, Business Platinum, and Centurion cardholders

• Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business cardholders

• Guest policy: Two guests free under certain conditions, $50 otherwise

Chase Sapphire Lounge

A new addition to JFK’s lounge scene, this luxury space offers plush seating, workstations, showers, and a fireplace. Dining options include grab-and-go buffets and sit-down meals delivered to your table.

Access:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders

• Priority Pass members

Air India Maharaja lounge

A smaller lounge at Gate B, offering hot and cold Indian cuisine, separate reading, TV, and dining areas, and a self-serve bar.

Access:

Air India premium passengers

Delta Sky Club

One of JFK’s largest lounges, featuring varied seating, a business center, a quiet zone, and an outdoor terrace. New Delta One Lounge coming soon, featuring spa services, relaxation pods, and à la carte dining.

Access:

• Sky Club members

• Delta One travelers

• Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders

• Delta SkyMiles Reserve cardholders

Terminal 5

jetBlue Wooftop Terrace

It may seem barking mad at first glance, but jetBlue has carved out a piece of green, serene space high above the runway below - and your pooch pal is absolutely welcome.

Access:

Available to all passengers in Terminal 5 

USO Lounge

A free lounge for active military personnel and their families, with a children’s play area, gaming center, and workstations.

Terminal 7

Alaska Airlines Lounge

A modern lounge with secluded seating, workstations, and a self-serve buffet.

Access:

• Alaska Airlines First Class passengers

• Priority Pass members

• Select United Airlines and oneworld elite flyers

Aer Lingus Lounge

A recently opened lounge with comfortable seating, hot and cold refreshments, Wi-Fi, and pre-flight dining for business-class passengers of the Irish airline.

Terminal 8

Greenwich Lounge 

The largest lounge in Terminal 8 (27,000 sq ft), featuring a Brooklyn Brewery Pub and a Bridge Bar for cocktails.

Access:

• Long-haul business-class passengers (AA & BA)

• Oneworld Sapphire members

Soho Lounge

Designed for Oneworld Emerald travelers, this luxurious space features daybeds, a top-tier buffet, and a full bar.

Chelsea Lounge

The most upscale of AA & BA’s lounges, featuring an opulent Champagne bar and full table service.

Access:

First-class passengers

American Airlines Flagship Lounge

A high-end lounge for first-class passengers, with showers, private work pods, and à la carte dining at the Flagship Bridge.

American Airlines Admirals Club Lounge

A spacious lounge with workstation pods, a children’s playroom, and TV lounge.

Access:

• Admirals Club members

• First- and business-class passengers

• Oneworld elite flyers

• Day passes available

JFK Airport restaurants

Every terminal in JFK offers plenty of options to let you dine before you fly or to pick up food to take on the airplane if you prefer. Take a look at some of the top choices in each terminal:

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 may not feature dazzling design, but you can still get a meal at these spots:

• Martini Bar: This retro bar features plenty of seating plus TVs to watch while you sip on your martini.

• JikJi Cafe: If you're in a rush, this popular counter-serve spot will fill you up with Korean and Japanese dishes including bulgogi and udon noodle soup.

Terminal 4

Check out these quick-serve spots and restaurants in the International Terminal:

• Five-Borough Food Hall: Think of it as a food truck festival where you can chow down on everything from tacos and shawarma to salads and noodle bowls — and don't miss the full bar located in a 1966 VW bus.

• Blue Smoke on the Road: If you've been to this Danny Meyer BBQ chain, you know what to order here: brisket sandwiches, black pepper sausages, or a great breakfast.

• Shake Shack: You know what you're getting at this outpost of the popular burger spot — concretes (frozen custard shakes), breakfast sandwiches, and more.

Terminal 5

You'll find quite a few sit-down restaurants at this terminal, plus a major food court.

• Piquillo: Spanish food is on the menu here (think paella), and it's also a good spot for a nice glass of wine with some charcuterie.

• JetBlue Food Hall: Head to Boar's Head for excellent sandwich choices (you can grab-and-go for your flight), or mix and match your favorite pasta and sauce at Fresh Italian Pasta.

• Brasserie La Vie: Enjoy French bistro food, including moules frites and salad Niçoise at this cheery brasserie that features a very nice wine list.

• AeroNuova: If you're a fan of Pasta Flyer in the city, you'll enjoy this sit-down Italian spot with a menu created by the same chef.

• Deep Blue Sushi: People arrive at JFK early just to enjoy some of this sushi — and there are grab-and-go options as well.

Terminal 7

Sink into a great cup of coffee here, as well as choosing from the following eateries:

• Irving Farm: Wonderful espresso brewed from locally roasted beans paired with pre-made sandwiches.

• Le Grand Comptoir: Sit down at this wine bar to sip some wine and enjoy some charcuterie.

Terminal 8

Grab-and-go or sit down to enjoy a meal at any of these spots:

• Brooklyn National Deli: Ideal if you can't leave NYC without one more hot dog or pastrami sandwich.

• Bobby Van's Steakhouse: Sit down to enjoy fine steaks and a full bar.

JFK Airport shops

Throughout JFK International Airport, you can find shops with the luxury goods you need as gifts as well as eminently practical items to ease your journey. Take a look at some of the most helpful shops by terminal.

Terminal 1

Snacks and reading material for your flight await you at several Hudson News outlets in Terminal 1. If you need to pick up a gift or to augment an outfit for your next business meeting in the city, check out the high-end boutiques from Coach, Hermes, Michael Kors, and Salvatore Ferragamo, or pick up a comfortable outfit from Juicy Couture.

Terminal 4

You can meet all your electronics needs at Bluwire, or stop at the AT&T shop to update your smartphone. Here in the international terminal, you have access to a wide range of high-end designers, including Brooks Brothers, Hugo Boss, Kate Spade, Longchamp, Michael Kors, and Swarovski, and you'll find skin care items at Kiehl's and MAC. The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store is filled with intriguing gifts, books, and art pieces, and Dylan's Candy Bar is a prime spot to pick up a true NYC special treat to take to loved ones at home.

Terminal 5

Fill out the missing items in your toiletries kit at the Benefit Cosmetics Zoom Shop, and stop by Blue Sky Traders for travel essentials. You'll find electronics and travel gadgets at the Best Buy Zoom Shops or Bluwire, and reading material for your flight awaits you at CNBC News, WhereTraveler Books or Heritage Books.

Terminal 7

The Duty-Free Americas shop in Terminal 7 lets international travelers save on customs in their home countries when they buy luxury goods including alcohol, perfumes, tobacco and more. Electronics for your flight are available at Tech on the Go, SIMS to Go, and the SIM Card Kiosk.

Terminal 8

Pick up gadgets and electronics at Brookstone, or check off your electronics list at InMotion or the iStore. There's also an International Shops Duty-Free in this terminal. If you're looking for sunglasses, check out Porsche Design and the Solstice Sunglass Boutique.

JFK Airport hotels

New York always gives you extra. Choose from some of these great hotels near JFK airport.

Location: 1 Idlewild Drive, Queens, NY 11430

This hotel, the only one situated inside JFK Airport itself, sits inside the 1962 TWA Flight Center terminal, which ceased operations in 2001. The Eero Saarinen-designed terminal has been restored, and two black-glass buildings have been added to accommodate 512 rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, and a 10,000-square-foot gym. The hotel is within walking distance to Terminal 5 and has a meeting space capable of holding up to 1600 people, if needed.

Marriott New York JFK Airport

Location: 135-25 142nd St, Queens, NY 11436

Free airport shuttle: Yes

A new and upscale hotel, the Marriott New York JFK offers modern, soundproofed rooms with premium bedding for a comfortable stay. The on-site restaurant and bar serve a variety of dishes, while the 24-hour fitness center lets guests stay active. Business travelers can take advantage of the fully equipped meeting rooms and workspaces. Its convenient location makes it a top choice for those needing a quick and comfortable stopover.

Location: 145-11 North Conduit Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11436

Free airport shuttle: Yes

This practical hotel is designed for travelers who want a stress-free stay close to JFK. Rooms are clean and modern, with plush bedding and ergonomic workstations. The on-site Bistro serves breakfast and dinner, while a 24-hour market ensures guests can grab snacks anytime. A business center and fitness room add to its appeal for both leisure and business travelers.

JFK Airport amenities

John F. Kennedy International Airport offers a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for travelers:

• ATMs and currency exchange: Multiple ATMs are available throughout the airport. Currency exchange services are provided by various operators in different terminals.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. 

• Baby care facilities: 

• Terminal 1: Near Gate 1, outside the Air France Lounge. 

• Terminal 4: Locations include near Gate A3, near Gate B31, and in the West Retail Hall. 

• Terminal 5: Available near Gate 1, near Gate 12, and near Gate 27. 

• Terminal 7: Adjacent to Gate 10 and between Gates 3 and 4. 

• Terminal 8: Located on the 3rd floor in an interior hallway, near Gate 14, and near Gate 42. 

• Medical services: A medical office is located in Building 22A, accessible via a free shuttle bus 24/7. For medical emergencies, emergency medical technicians are available around the clock. 

• Smoking areas: Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas outside the terminals, prior to security.

• Water bottle filling stations: 

  • Terminal 1: A station is located opposite Gate 4, near the restrooms. 

  • Terminal 4: Touchless water bottle filling stations have replaced traditional water fountains throughout the terminal. 

  • Terminal 5: Two Pepsi fountain machines that can be used for bottle refills are situated in the food court, just past security. 

  • Terminal 8: A water filling station is available opposite Gate 12, beside the restrooms near Hudson. 

Travel to JFK stress-free

Getting to and from JFK Airport can be a challenge. Taxis are pricey, rideshares surge at peak hours, and public transport is often unreliable, all while you’re juggling luggage and racing against the clock. A chauffeured ride to the airport takes the hassle out of your journey, offering a comfortable, punctual, and stress-free ride with professional chauffeurs. Forget the crowds and unpredictability, just sit back, relax, and arrive at your destination smoothly and on time.

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