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John F. Kennedy International Airport

Gateway to New York’s pulse

Airport in United States

New York City (20 km)

187 destinations

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John F. Kennedy International Airport serves as a major gateway to New York City and the United States. Located in Queens, it handles flights from around the world with facilities for international arrivals and departures. The airport includes terminals equipped for various airlines, offering services like baggage claim areas, dining options and transportation connections such as taxis and public transit links. As one of the busiest airports in the country, JFK plays a key role in connecting travelers to destinations across North America and beyond.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

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New York JFK Airport Summary

John F. Kennedy International Airport is an airport near New York City in United States. It currently offers regular passenger service to 187 destinations operated by 72 airlines.

Top airlines

Delta Air Lines (DL)

1477 flights per week

JetBlue Airways (B6)

1238 flights per week

American Airlines (AA)

636 flights per week

Top destinations

LAX Los Angeles

LHR London

SFO San Francisco

Cheapest destinations

MCO Orlando

ATL Atlanta

MIA Miami

Best destinations

HND Tokyo

SIN Singapore

CDG Paris

United States – Quick facts

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John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the busiest international airport in North America, spanning over 21 square kilometers in the Queens borough of New York City. Since opening in 1948, it has been the primary gateway to New York, serving over 62 million passengers annually. The airport is a hub for American Airlines, Delta and JetBlue, with nonstop flights across the globe.

The airport offers a large variety of terminals, shops, lounges and eateries, making it a lively place to explore while waiting for flights. The shopping is extensive, ranging from luxury boutiques such as Coach and Michael Kors to tech stores like Best Buy and InMotion. There are many lounges available for premium passengers, offering comfort and relaxation amid the airport buzz.

However, visitors should prepare for some challenges: JFK is known for its sometimes chaotic security lines, occasional staff unfriendliness and the need to allow extra time due to its size and traffic. Construction and renovations have added to occasional delays or confusing signage. Despite these, it remains a fascinating entry point to New York City's energy and diversity.

Getting to Manhattan and other served areas is fairly straightforward with options including the JFK AirTrain connected to subway lines, taxis, buses and shuttle services. The airport’s international flavor is reflected in its multilingual staff and services, accommodating millions from all over the world.

Helpful tips for John F. Kennedy International Airport

Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights for security and boarding.
Use the free Wi‑Fi network, but verify the password on the airport’s information desk or website.
Check the JFK Airport app for real‑time gate changes, flight status updates and terminal maps to avoid confusion.
Explore Terminal 5’s art installations and the nearby LaGuardia Street Market for authentic local cuisine before departure.

Available airport lounges

Air India Maharajah Lounge

Terminal 4, near Gate 5, open daily 7:15 a.m.–9:45 p.m. Features refreshments, meals, TV, Wi-Fi, and newspapers. Access limited to Air India first/executive class passengers and Priority Pass holders.

KAL Lounge

Terminal 1, near Gate 3, open 10:30 a.m.–1:50 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.–12:50 a.m. Separate first class and business class areas with snacks, showers, Wi-Fi, and business centre. Access via first/business class tickets or Priority Pass.

Lufthansa Business Class Lounge

Terminal 1, left after security, open varying hours mostly afternoons to late night. Self-serve buffet with premium dishes, drinks, Wi-Fi, TV room, and locker facilities. Accessible to Lufthansa business class and Star Alliance Gold members.

Air France-KLM Lounge

Terminal 1, Level 3 near Gate 1, open daily 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Offers complimentary drinks, hot meals, showers, Wi-Fi, and business services. Accessible with business class tickets or Priority Pass. Day passes available.

Where to stay near John F. Kennedy International Airport

Near JFK, accommodation options range from practical airport hotels ideal for layovers to more upscale hotels in Queens and Manhattan. Many visitors stay in Manhattan for a true taste of the city after their flight, while others prefer quieter stays close to the airport for convenience.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

Hampton Inn New York-JFK

8.0

Five Towns Inn

8.1

DoubleTree by Hilton New York JFK Airport

7.8

Marriott New York JFK Airport

8.5

Comfort Inn JFK Airport

7.7

Holiday Inn Express Jamaica - JFK AirTrain - NYC By IHG

7.9

Fairfield Inn New York JFK Airport

8.4

Hilton Garden Inn Queens/JFK Airport

7.6

Courtyard by Marriott New York JFK Airport

8.4

Red Roof PLUS+ Jamaica, NY - JFK Airport

7.3

Explore more accommodations

How to get from New York JFK Airport to popular destinations

To Manhattan:
The JFK AirTrain connects the airport to two major subway stations (Howard Beach and Jamaica Station) for transfers to subway lines A and E. The trip takes about 60-90 minutes and costs around US$11.40 (£8.52) including the AirTrain and subway fare. Alternatively, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) can be accessed via AirTrain at Jamaica Station for a faster train to Penn Station (~35-45 min) at about US$10 (£7.48) fare plus AirTrain. Taxi rides to Manhattan typically take 45-60 minutes depending on traffic and cost around US$70 (£52.33), offering a direct and comfortable option.

To Queens:
Queens is accessible by local buses and the AirTrain, which connects within the airport to surrounding neighbourhoods quickly. Depending on the destination in Queens, travel times range from 15 to 40 minutes, usually costing less than US$5 (£3.74) by public transport. Taxis and rideshares are also available for more direct routes.

To Brooklyn:
To reach Brooklyn, travellers can use the AirTrain to subway transfer at Jamaica Station or Howard Beach, then take trains connecting to Brooklyn. The journey may take around 70-90 minutes via public transport and costs approximately US$11.40 (£8.52) with AirTrain and subway fares combined. Rideshares and taxis provide a more direct but costlier alternative.