How do you travel on the JFK AirTrain at JFK Airport?

April 5, 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off

Are you going on a city break to New York and land at JFK Airport? Then it is useful to know how to travel on to Manhattan. One of the easiest and cheapest ways is with the JFK AirTrain. In this blog we explain step by step how it works.

What is the JFK AirTrain?

The JFK AirTrain is an automatic train at JFK Airport. This train runs between the airport’s various terminals and connects to New York City’s public transportation system. Whether you continue your journey by subway, hotel shuttle or rental car, you always use the JFK AirTrain first.

When does the JFK AirTrain run?

The JFK AirTrain runs day and night, 24/7. During busy times, a train comes every 2-3 minutes. During quieter hours, it is every 4-10 minutes. So you never have to wait long.

Where can you find the JFK AirTrain at JFK Airport?

JFK Airport is large, but fortunately the JFK AirTrain is easy to find. There are clear signs in each terminal with arrows directing you to the correct boarding point. So you can easily follow the route.

The three routes of the JFK AirTrain

There are three routes of the JFK AirTrain. Each route has a different destination:

1. Jamaica Station Route

This route takes you from JFK Airport to Jamaica Station. There you can transfer to the subway. The E-train will take you through Midtown Manhattan to the World Trade Center. Going to Lower Manhattan? Then take the J or Z train.

2. Howard Beach Route

This train will take you to Howard Beach Station. Here you transfer to the A-train, which takes you to places such as Fulton Street, Penn Station and Times Square.

3. Federal Circle Route

You use this route when traveling within the airport. Also, this line takes you to Federal Circle, where you will find hotel shuttles and car rental agencies.

Is the JFK AirTrain free?

Within JFK Airport, the JFK AirTrain is free. So you don’t need to buy a ticket if you’re only traveling between terminals. If you are going to Jamaica Station or Howard Beach, you do need a ticket.

What does a ticket for the JFK AirTrain cost?

A one-way trip on the JFK AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach costs $8.50 per person. Children under 5 travel free.

Where do you buy a JFK AirTrain ticket?

You don’t buy your JFK AirTrain ticket at the airport, but at the Jamaica or Howard Beach subway stations. There are ticket machines there where you can pay. Keep in mind that it can be crowded. Want to get out faster? Then pay contactless with OMNY.

What is OMNY?

OMNY is a contactless payment system for public transportation in New York. You can pay with it using your credit card, smartphone or a special OMNY card. Fast and easy!

How does paying with OMNY for the JFK AirTrain work?

Upon arrival at Jamaica or Howard Beach Station, walk to the exit. At the gates you can pay directly contactless with OMNY. This way you don’t have to buy a ticket and you’re on your way faster.

How long is the ride on the JFK AirTrain?

1. To Jamaica Station: about 10 to 15 minutes

2. To Howard Beach Station: about 8 to 10 minutes

So the JFK AirTrain is both fast and reliable.

Is travel on the JFK AirTrain safe?

Yes, the JFK AirTrain is very safe. There are security guards and cameras on the trains and at the stations. So you can travel with peace of mind.

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