JFK Airport: What’s There to Know
The main airport in New York, John F. Kennedy International Airport, began its operation in 1948. However, it didn’t receive its current name until 1963. Verily, the airport was named as a tribute to the assassinated 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy. Nowadays, JFK Airport -as it is most commonly known- is one of the busiest airports in the USA and one of the most occupied air hubs in the world. Moreover, it is the main air gateway to North America. In fact, it welcomed 63,265,972 passengers in 2024. It is located on the Southeast side of Queen County, 16 miles/26km from the Manhattan area.
The JFK Airport Terminals
The vast New York airport complex consists of six terminal buildings. Overall, it has 131 gates and 4 runways. However, JFK terminals are numbered from 1 to 8, as the T3 and T6 buildings were razed to the ground. On the other hand, all terminals are connected via free airport shuttles. Still, the AirTrain runs on the terminals’ public zones. Hence, terminals aren’t connected airside.
The Airlines Present at JFK Airport
The busy New York Airport handles flights from and to all over the world, operated by domestic and international air carriers. In fact, more than 90 airlines are present at JFK Airport. What’s more, the airport is a hub for American Airlines, JetBlue, and Delta Airlines, while it serves as a focus city for Norse Atlantic Airways and Polar Air Cargo.
Parking at JFK Airport
Each of New York airport’s terminals has its own parking facility, serving the short-term parking needs of passengers departing or arriving at each JFK terminal building. On the other hand, Parking Lot 9 is the parking area dedicated to longer stays. Moreover, JFK features pick-up and drop-off zones to facilitate passenger access. Thus, the JFK parking facilities are efficient, meeting the needs of the busy airport’s passengers.
Transportation from JFK Airport
JFK is well-connected to the city of New York, as well as to various surrounding areas. For instance, passengers who want to travel from JFK Airport to Manhattan can make their pick among airport taxis and private airport transfers or even book a car rental at the airport. On the other hand, the most affordable options are, without a doubt, the subway, the Long Island Railroad (LIRR), and the time-consuming and tedious local buses.
Contact Info
– Official Name: John F. Kennedy International Airport
– IATA Code: JFK
– ICAO: KJFK
– Location: Jamaica, Queens, New York, U.S
– Address: Queens, New York, 11430, U.S.A.
– Phone Number: (718) 244-4444
– Official Website: https://www.jfkairport.com/
– Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-05:00)
A Few Words about New York
If one city were the definition of the word “metropolis”, that would definitely be New York. “The city that never sleeps”, “the Big Apple”, and “The Melting Pot”, NYC has several nicknames indicating its diversity, its vividness, and as a result, the fact that it is a unique place on earth. Being a modern and high-tech urban center, New York boasts breathtaking skyscrapers and iconic landmarks while featuring green paradises, such as the renowned Central Park. On the other hand, it is a cultural hub, a place where concerts, performances, plays, and artistic events find their home. Meanwhile, its historical significance is evident in its various sites and attractions, and its mosaic of diversity is almost tangible throughout districts such as Harlem, Little Italy, and Chinatown. With countless attractions, events, and experiences, there is never a shortage of things to do in New York, making it a city that caters to every interest and passion.
FAQs
What is the main airport in New York?
The city of New York is served by three major airports. Thus, JFK Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport handle flights from and to NYC. However, the main airport in New York is JFK.
How many terminals does New York Airport have?
JFK International Airport has six terminal buildings. However, they are numbered from 1 to 8, as two terminals (T3 and T6) were demolished. All terminals are inter-connected yet only landside.
Where is New York Airport located?
JFK Airport is situated in Queens County. Explicitly, it is to be found in its southeast area, in the Jamaica neighborhood. Thus, it lies about 16 miles/26 km from the heart of Manhattan.
How early should I get to JFK Airport?
JFK Airport is a major aviation hub, handling numerous passengers and several flights on a daily basis. Thus, if you want to enjoy a seamless check-in experience, you should be at New York Airport two hours before your upcoming flight if your destination is domestic and at least three hours prior to your departure if your journey’s end is international.
How can I get from New York Airport to the city center?
If you want to get from JFK Airport to downtown NYC, you can travel in comfort via an airport taxi or a private airport transfer, settle on an autonomous ride via an airport car rental, or choose one of the two cheapest alternatives, which is catching the subway or the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) to your destination. Alternatively, local buses are also available. Still, their routes are long, and the transit is regarded as overall tiresome.