John F Kennedy Airport (JFK)

Overview

JFK currently operates five active passenger terminals: Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8. Terminals 2 and 3 have been permanently closed and demolished. Terminal 6 is under construction and scheduled to open in phases from 2026. A new Terminal 1 is also under construction on the site of the former Terminal 1 and 2. All terminals are connected by the free AirTrain loop, though they are not airside-connected — transferring between terminals requires exiting security and re-clearing. Allow at least 60–90 minutes for terminal-to-terminal connections.

Terminal 1

The existing Terminal 1 serves primarily non-U.S. airlines operating international routes. A new, replacement Terminal 1 is under construction on the same site (designed by Gensler, breaking ground 2022, opening in phases from 2026, full completion ~2030). The new $9.5 billion Terminal 1 will feature a "spine of skylights" design with expansive naturally-lit spaces.

• Current airlines: Air France, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Japan Airlines (JAL), and other international carriers not housed in T4 or T8
• Alliances: SkyTeam (Air France, Korean Air), Star Alliance (Lufthansa), oneworld (JAL)
• Lounges: VIP One Lounge & Checkpoint, Primeclass Lounge (Priority Pass/Dragon Pass accepted; day pass ~$65), Air France-KLM Lounge (for SkyTeam Business/First), KAL Lounge (Korean Air)
• Key facilities: Duty-free, dining outlets, SDI Currency Exchange, ATMs, prayer room

Terminal 4 (JFKIAT)

Terminal 4 is the largest and busiest terminal at JFK, handling approximately 18.5 million passengers in 2024. It is operated by JFK International Air Terminal LLC (JFKIAT) and serves as the primary hub for Delta Air Lines. The terminal underwent a significant $1.5 billion expansion completed between 2022–2023, adding a new 10-gate Concourse A extension and modernised arrivals/departures facilities. Designer: SOM for the Concourse A expansion.

• Airlines: Delta Air Lines (hub), Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air India, Avianca, Caribbean Airlines, China Eastern, KLM, LATAM, Virgin Atlantic, WestJet, and others
• Alliances: SkyTeam (Delta, Air France, Korean Air, KLM, Aeromexico, China Eastern, LATAM), plus Virgin Atlantic (SkyTeam affiliate)
• Lounges:
  • Delta One Lounge (between Concourses A and B) — open 04:30–23:00 daily; for Delta One (long-haul Business Class) passengers; features a full-service brasserie, zero-gravity massage chairs, shower suites (marble-fitted), private seating, outdoor terrace/Sky Deck. Widely regarded as the best lounge in the USA.
  • Delta Sky Club (Concourse A) — open 04:45–23:30; accessible to Delta Sky Club members, Amex Platinum/Reserve cardholders (with flight), Delta premium cabin passengers. Features buffet, bar, work areas, showers.
  • Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (above Gates A4–A5) — 05:00–08:00 and 15:00–22:30; Upper Class and Flying Club Gold passengers; features a la carte dining, billiards, bar.
  • Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (with Etihad) — for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders and Etihad Business/First Class passengers
  • Centurion Lounge by American Express — for Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders flying out of JFK
  • Emirates Lounge — for Emirates First and Business Class passengers
• Key facilities: Extensive dining (100+ food/retail options), duty-free, Travelex currency exchange, left luggage, XpresSpa (showers/spa treatments), medical centre, interfaith chapel, children's play areas, pet relief areas

Terminal 5 (JetBlue Airways)

Terminal 5 is the exclusive terminal for JetBlue Airways, opened in October 2008 on the site of the former TWA terminal annex. It handles both domestic and international JetBlue flights. The terminal is modern, light-filled, and known for its efficient layout.

• Airlines: JetBlue Airways only
• Lounges: No traditional airline lounge; JetBlue Mint (Business Class) passengers have access to dedicated Mint areas at gates
• Key facilities: Wide variety of NYC-themed dining and retail, free WiFi, XpresSpa

Terminal 7 (Currently Managed by Vantage Group)

Terminal 7 currently operates as an interim facility for several international carriers while the new Terminal 6 is under construction. It was formerly operated by British Airways. Terminal 7 will be demolished in 2026 to make way for Phase 2 of the new Terminal 6 construction.

• Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and other carriers in transition ahead of Terminal 6 opening
• Lounges: Alaska Airlines Lounge (open from 05:00)

Terminal 8 (American Airlines)

Terminal 8 is the primary terminal for American Airlines and its oneworld partners at JFK. The terminal underwent a $400 million expansion (completed 2022) and is currently undergoing a further $125 million commercial redevelopment by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), expected to complete by 2026, adding 60+ new shops and restaurants including a "great hall" food and retail concourse.

• Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, Finnair, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, and other oneworld partners
• Alliances: oneworld
• Lounges:
  • Admirals Club (Concourse C, Level 3) — 04:15–22:30 daily; for AA members, AAdvantage Gold+ status, oneworld Emerald/Sapphire on AA flights, day pass available
  • Flagship Lounge (Level 3) — for American Airlines international First Class and Business Class passengers; full-service dining, showers
  • British Airways Chelsea Lounge (Level 1, post-security) — 04:15–00:30; First and Business Class on BA and AA flights only
  • Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Lounge — for Qatar First and Business Class passengers
• Key facilities: Duty-free, dining, retail, luggage storage, XpresSpa

Terminal 6 (Under Construction — Opening 2026)

The brand-new $4.2 billion Terminal 6, being built by JFK Millennium Partners (led by Vantage Group), is a 1.2 million sq ft facility replacing the old Terminals 6 and 7. Phase 1 (5 gates) opens in early 2026; Phase 2 (5 additional gates) completes in 2028. Airlines confirmed for T6 include: Aer Lingus, Air Canada, ANA, Austrian Airlines, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Condor, Frontier, JetBlue, Kuwait Airways, Lufthansa, Norse Atlantic, and SWISS. Features include a 100,000 sq ft NYC-inspired dining/retail concourse with a central 80-foot oculus skylight, biometric self-service check-in, and a less than 5-minute walk from security exit to any gate.

Inter-Terminal Connections

All terminals are connected by the free AirTrain loop, which runs every 3–10 minutes 24/7. Travel time between adjacent terminals is approximately 5–10 minutes; full loop approximately 25 minutes. Critical note for connecting passengers: JFK terminals are not airside-connected. Any terminal-to-terminal connection requires passengers to exit security at the arriving terminal, ride the AirTrain, and re-clear TSA security at the departing terminal. Allow a minimum of 90 minutes for international-to-domestic connections and at least 60 minutes for domestic-to-domestic with AirTrain transfer.

Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan and New York City

JFK Airport is approximately 24 km (15 miles) from Midtown Manhattan. Despite this relatively modest distance, traffic on the Van Wyck Expressway and Belt Parkway can make ground transport unpredictable. The AirTrain system, operating 24/7, connects all terminals to the city's rail and subway networks and is the most reliable option for avoiding traffic delays.

AirTrain JFK + Subway (MTA)

The AirTrain JFK is an automated people-mover system that runs 24/7, connecting all airport terminals to two off-airport stations: Jamaica Station (Long Island Rail Road + E/J/Z subway lines) and Howard Beach Station (A subway line). Within the airport, AirTrain travel between terminals is free of charge. Payment is required only when exiting at Jamaica or Howard Beach.

• AirTrain fare (exit at Jamaica or Howard Beach): $8.50 standard (paid via OMNY contactless tap — bank card, phone, or smartwatch); 10-trip pass $26.50; 30-day pass $42.50. Note: MetroCard ended December 31, 2025; all payment now via OMNY.
• Subway fare (additional): $2.90 per ride via OMNY tap
• Frequency: Every 3–10 minutes depending on time of day; 24/7 operation
• Jamaica Station → E train to Midtown Manhattan (Penn Station/Times Square): ~25–35 min additional; total door-to-door approx. 50–75 min
• Howard Beach → A train to Lower Manhattan/Midtown: ~40–55 min additional; total approx. 60–80 min
• Total cost (AirTrain + subway): ~$11.40 per person
• Summer discount: AirTrain fare reduced to $4.25 from approximately late June through Labour Day (Port Authority initiative to encourage public transit use during peak construction/travel season)

AirTrain JFK + Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)

The fastest public transit option. Take AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then LIRR westbound to Penn Station (Midtown, ~20 min) or Grand Central Madison (~20 min) or Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn, ~15 min).

• LIRR fare to Manhattan: $5.25 off-peak / $7.25 peak (in addition to $8.50 AirTrain)
• Total cost: ~$13.75–$15.75 per person
• Total journey time (airport to Penn Station): approx. 30–45 min

Yellow Taxi (NYC TLC)

Official yellow taxis are available 24/7 curbside outside the arrivals level of each terminal. The NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) mandates a flat fare of $70 for all trips between JFK and any destination in Manhattan (Rate #2 on the taximeter), regardless of distance within Manhattan. All passengers to one destination pay a single flat fare.

• Base flat fare (JFK ↔ Manhattan): $70
• Peak hour surcharge: +$5 (weekdays 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, excluding holidays)
• MTA State Surcharge: +$0.50
• Improvement Surcharge: +$1.00
• NY State Congestion Surcharge: +$2.50 for Yellow Taxi (trips through Manhattan below 96th St)
• MTA Congestion Pricing Toll: +$0.75 for trips into Manhattan below 60th St
• Tolls: Tunnel/bridge tolls are additional (e.g., Midtown Tunnel ~$4–$7)
• Typical all-in cost (including tip): ~$90–$115 to most Manhattan destinations
• Journey time: 30–60 min off-peak; 60–90 min during rush hour
• Important: Always use the official taxi queue with the licensed dispatcher; never accept rides from unlicensed touts inside the terminal

Ride-Sharing (Uber, Lyft)

Uber and Lyft operate from designated pick-up areas at each terminal. Pick-up zones are located at the arrivals level — follow signs for "Rideshare." Prices are metered and subject to surge pricing; expect comparable or higher costs than yellow taxis during peak periods.

• Typical fare to Manhattan: $55–$100 (UberX); $75–$130 (UberXL/Comfort) depending on surge and traffic
• Note: App-based booking provides price transparency; useful for travel to outer boroughs and New Jersey where taxi pricing is metered/negotiated

Shared Shuttles

Go Airlink NYC and other shared shuttle services operate door-to-door service between JFK and Manhattan hotels. Prices start from approximately $35 per person. Journey times vary significantly (90–150 min) due to multiple hotel drop-offs. Best suited for solo travellers who are not in a hurry.

Express Bus (NYC Express Bus)

NYC Express Bus operates between JFK and Manhattan with stops at key Midtown locations. Fare approximately $20 per person. Journey time 60–90 min depending on traffic. Bus stops are at ground level outside terminals.

Car Rental

All major rental companies operate at JFK including Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, and Thrifty. Car rental facilities are off-site; take the AirTrain to the Rental Car Center station (free within airport). The airport is accessible via the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) and the Belt Parkway. Heavy traffic during rush hours (07:00–09:00 and 16:00–19:00) is typical.

Helicopter (BLADE)

BLADE helicopter service operates between JFK Airport and Manhattan (West 30th St Heliport or other points) in under 10 minutes. Prices from $195 per seat on shared flights; charter options available. Ideal for business travellers with time-critical connections.

The TWA Hotel — On-Airport Icon

The most celebrated airport hotel in the United States, the TWA Hotel occupies the landmarked Eero Saarinen–designed TWA Flight Center (1962), a masterpiece of mid-century modernism. Opened in May 2019, the 512-room hotel is located between Terminals 4 and 5, directly accessible via the AirTrain (Terminal 5 station). The building underwent a meticulous restoration by Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and is now both a hotel and a living museum to the golden age of aviation. It is classified as a New York City Landmark.

• Price range: ~$200–$500+/night (overnight); Daytripper hourly rates from 6 AM–8 PM for 4–12 hours
• Facilities: 512 rooms, rooftop infinity pool (open year-round; heats to a "pool-cuzzi" in winter), Paris Café restaurant (Jean-Georges partnership), Connie Bar (inside a converted 1958 Lockheed Constellation aircraft), Sunken Lounge, TWA Museum exhibits, multiple bars, fitness centre
• Unique features: Quietest hotel rooms in New York City (runway-facing rooms certified at under 40 dB), 1960s retro décor throughout, Connie L-1649A aircraft body preserved as a cocktail lounge
• Note: The TWA Hotel is on the landside (outside security); guests must clear TSA security to access terminals. The hotel is open to non-hotel guests for dining, drinks, and museum visits.

Airport-Adjacent Hotels (Within 5 km)

Several hotels in Jamaica, Queens, provide free shuttle service directly to JFK terminal frontages, typically every 15–30 minutes.

• Marriott New York JFK Airport ★★★★ — Modern property with M-Club concierge lounge, runway views, fitness centre, complimentary shuttle. ~$180–$320/night.
• Courtyard by Marriott New York JFK Airport ★★★ — Business-focused, free shuttle, bistro restaurant. ~$130–$220/night.
• Holiday Inn Express Kennedy Airport ★★★ — Free shuttle, breakfast, parking, gym. ~$120–$200/night.
• Hilton Garden Inn JFK Airport ★★★ — Full-service hotel, restaurant, free shuttle. ~$130–$230/night.
• Best Western JFK Airport ★★★ — Budget option, free WiFi, free breakfast, free shuttle. ~$100–$170/night.
• JFK Inn ★★★ — Budget-friendly, free parking, free WiFi, free breakfast, free shuttle. ~$90–$150/night.

Transit/Overnight Options at the Airport

JFK does not have an airside transit hotel (unlike Istanbul or Amsterdam airports). The TWA Hotel is the closest option, but requires exiting the secure terminal zone. For short layovers, XpresSpa (located in Terminals 1, 4, and 8) offers sleep pods/rest pods for hourly booking. Comfortable seating areas are available throughout all terminals 24/7, though they are not specifically designated sleeping zones.

Hotels Near Manhattan (for JFK travellers)

Many travellers opting for Manhattan hotels can take the AirTrain + LIRR to Penn Station or Grand Central, placing them within walking distance of hundreds of hotel options in Midtown. This is often more practical and cost-effective than staying in Jamaica/Queens for visitors primarily travelling to Manhattan.

Parking at JFK Airport

JFK Airport offers parking across multiple lots serving different terminals. Parking is managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Given the ongoing $19 billion redevelopment, some lots have been temporarily reduced in capacity; the Port Authority strongly encourages use of public transport (AirTrain + subway/LIRR) during peak construction periods.

Parking Lots and Pricing (2024/2025)

Online pre-booking: Parking can be reserved in advance at jfkairport.com and third-party platforms. Pre-booking is strongly recommended during summer months and holidays, as lots fill quickly. Online rates may be 10–15% lower than walk-up rates.

Free Cell Phone/Wait Lot

The Port Authority operates a free Cell Phone Wait Lot at the Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain station. Drivers waiting for arriving passengers can park here for free and ride the AirTrain (free within airport) to the terminal once their passenger has cleared customs/baggage. This eliminates the need to circle terminal roads and avoids pick-up zone congestion fees.

EV Charging

Electric vehicle charging stations are available in select JFK parking facilities. Availability is expanding as part of the PANYNJ sustainability programme. Confirm current EV charger locations at jfkairport.com before arrival.

Off-Airport Parking

Numerous private off-airport parking operators serve JFK with complimentary shuttle service. Typical rates range from $12–$22/day, representing significant savings over on-airport pricing. Operators include Park2Go, NYC Parking, and others bookable via SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or the operator's own websites. Allow additional time for the shuttle transfer (typically 10–20 min).

Payment

Parking payment is accepted via credit/debit card, contactless payment, and E-ZPass (for certain toll facilities). Cash is generally accepted at exit booths. Pre-booked reservations are typically non-refundable; confirm cancellation policies before booking.

WiFi

JFK Airport provides free, unlimited WiFi throughout all five active terminals. Connect to the network named "Free JFK WiFi". No registration or time limits apply. Speed is sufficient for standard browsing and video calls. Support line: (800) 880-4117, available 24/7. Premium high-speed options may be available at certain lounges.

Lounges Summary

JFK has approximately 29 lounges spread across its terminals. Key highlights:

• Delta One Lounge (T4) — widely considered the best airport lounge in the USA; for Delta One long-haul Business Class passengers; full brasserie, spa, shower suites, outdoor Sky Deck
• Delta Sky Club (T4) — for Delta Sky Club members and select Amex cardholders; buffet, bar, work areas, showers
• Centurion Lounge by American Express (T4) — for Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders
• Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (T4) — for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders and Etihad premium passengers
• British Airways Chelsea Lounge (T8) — for BA and AA First/Business Class
• American Airlines Flagship Lounge (T8) — for AA international premium cabin
• Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (T4) — for Virgin Upper Class and Flying Club Gold; a la carte dining, billiards
• Qatar Airways Al Mourjan (T8) — for Qatar First/Business Class
• Primeclass Lounge (T1) — accessible via Priority Pass/Dragon Pass; ~$65 day pass
• TWA Hotel Lounges — open to all visitors (no boarding pass required) at Paris Café, Connie bar, and Sunken Lounge

Shopping

JFK terminals offer a wide range of retail options, though historically less comprehensive than other major international airports. Terminal 4 has the most developed retail with 100+ food and retail outlets. The Terminal 8 commercial redevelopment (completing 2026) will add 60+ new shops and restaurants. Key retail options include:

• Duty-free shops (primarily in T4 and T8) offering spirits, tobacco, fragrance, confectionery, and luxury goods
• Newsagents/bookshops: Hudson News (all terminals)
• Electronics: Best Buy Express kiosks, InMotion Entertainment
• Fashion and accessories: Coach, Michael Kors, and others in T4
• NYC souvenirs and specialty stores throughout

Dining

Dining options vary significantly by terminal. Terminal 4 has the widest selection:

• Terminal 4: Shake Shack, Cibo e Vino (Italian), Numero 28 Pizzeria, Obica Mozzarella Bar, the Great Hall food area, Starbucks, Dunkin, multiple grab-and-go options
• Terminal 5 (JetBlue): Finest Bagels, Energy Kitchen, Dunkin', Terminal 5 Bar, various NYC-themed concepts
• Terminal 8 (American): Expanding via the URW redevelopment (2026); current options include La Boulangerie, various grab-and-go
• Price range: Budget meals $12–$18; mid-range $20–$35; premium dining in lounges $35+
• 24-hour options: Limited; Terminal 4 has the best overnight availability

Medical Services

Each terminal has first aid facilities. Terminal 4 has a staffed medical centre. Airport ambulance service is available 24/7. In case of emergency, contact any Port Authority Police officer or dial 911. XpresSpa locations (Terminals 1, 4, 8) offer wellness services including massages, reflexology, and skincare treatments.

Family Facilities

• Nursing/lactation rooms available in Terminals 4, 5, and 8 (look for Family Room signage)
• Stroller-friendly corridors and elevators throughout
• Family security lanes designated at TSA checkpoints
• Children's play areas in select gate zones within T4 and T5
• Pet relief areas (indoor and outdoor) designated throughout all terminals

Accessibility (PRM Services)

JFK provides comprehensive accessibility services. Wheelchair assistance must be requested through your airline at time of booking. The airport has: hearing loops, Sunflower Lanyard Programme for hidden disabilities, dedicated accessible security lanes, lifts throughout terminal buildings, and accessible restrooms. The AirTrain system is fully wheelchair-accessible with lifts at all stations. Contact your airline or the PANYNJ Customer Service line at the Welcome Centers (located on the Arrivals level of each terminal) for assistance.

Currency Exchange and ATMs

Travelex currency exchange counters are located in Terminals 1, 4, and 8. SDI Currency Exchange also operates at several locations. Multiple ATMs from major banks (Citibank, Chase, Bank of America) are available throughout all terminals. Note: Airport exchange rates are typically 8–15% less favourable than city rates; withdrawing cash from ATMs (which provide close-to-market rates) is preferable. Manhattan has abundant ATMs and currency exchange options.

Luggage Storage

Baggage storage (left luggage) is available in Terminals 4 and 8. Operated by Stasher/partner companies; prices typically $10–$15 per item per day. Storage is located in the arrivals/landside area. Bounce and other luggage storage networks also have partner locations in Jamaica near the airport.

Smoking

JFK Airport is entirely smoke-free inside all terminal buildings. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located outside terminal entrances (landside, before security). There are no airside smoking areas; passengers who smoke must exit security and cannot re-enter without re-clearing TSA. Violations are subject to fines enforced by Port Authority Police.

Prayer and Interfaith Chapel

An Interfaith Chapel is located in Terminal 4. Prayer and meditation rooms are also available in Terminal 1. All facilities are open to passengers of all faiths.

Showers

Shower facilities are available at XpresSpa locations (Terminals 1, 4, 8) on a fee basis (typically $20–$35 for a shower session). Shower suites are also available in the Delta One Lounge and several other premium airline lounges for eligible passengers. Day-use shower packages can be booked via the XpresSpa website.

Hub Airlines

Delta Air Lines (DL) — SkyTeam; primary hub at Terminal 4 (T4). Delta holds approximately 30% market share at JFK, operating from the expansive T4 complex with extensive domestic and international long-haul routes. Key hubs for Delta's transatlantic network.

JetBlue Airways (B6) — No alliance; operates exclusively from Terminal 5 (T5) with approximately 26% market share. Dominant in domestic leisure routes and transatlantic services to the UK and Europe (Mint Business Class).

American Airlines (AA) — oneworld; principal carrier at Terminal 8 (T8), serving as a significant international gateway, particularly for oneworld partners and transatlantic routes.

Star Alliance Carriers

• Lufthansa (LH) — Frankfurt, Munich (T1; moving to T6 in 2026)
• Air Canada (AC) — Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver (moving to T6)
• United Airlines (UA) — Chicago, Denver, San Francisco and domestic connections
• Swiss International Air Lines (LX) — Zurich (moving to T6)
• ANA (NH) — Tokyo Narita (moving to T6)
• Cathay Pacific (CX) — Hong Kong (moving to T6)
• Austrian Airlines (OS) — Vienna (moving to T6)
• Aegean Airlines (A3) — Athens
• LOT Polish Airlines (LO) — Warsaw

SkyTeam Carriers

• Air France (AF) — Paris CDG (T1)
• KLM (KL) — Amsterdam (T4)
• Korean Air (KE) — Seoul Incheon (T1)
• Aeromexico (AM) — Mexico City (T4)
• China Eastern (MU) — Shanghai (T1)
• LATAM Airlines (LA) — Santiago, São Paulo (T4)
• Virgin Atlantic (VS) — London Heathrow (T4)
• WestJet (WS) — Toronto, Calgary (T4)

oneworld Carriers

• British Airways (BA) — London Heathrow (T8)
• Qatar Airways (QR) — Doha (T8)
• Iberia (IB) — Madrid (T8)
• Finnair (AY) — Helsinki (T8)
• Japan Airlines (JL) — Tokyo Narita (T1)
• Royal Air Maroc (AT) — Casablanca (T8)
• Aer Lingus (EI) — Dublin, London (moving to T6)
• Avianca (AV) — Bogotá, other Latin American cities (T4; moving to T6)

Notable Low-Cost and Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers

• Frontier Airlines (F9) — domestic US routes (T7; moving to T6)
• Norse Atlantic Airways (N0) — London, Paris, Oslo (T7; moving to T6)
• Condor (DE) — Frankfurt, other German cities (moving to T6)
• Brussels Airlines (SN) — Brussels (moving to T6)

Top Routes from JFK

Distances from JFK Airport

JFK Airport Annual Passenger Statistics

JFK set an all-time annual record of 63.3 million total passengers in 2024 — including a record 35.3 million international passengers, confirming its status as North America's largest international gateway. The airport recovered strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the second consecutive year in 2024.

Aircraft Operations

JFK handled approximately 420,000 aircraft operations in 2024, a 4% increase from 2023's 405,000. Air carrier operations accounted for ~79% of total movements. The airport has 4 runways arranged in two parallel pairs, providing high-capacity independent arrival and departure operations.

Cargo

JFK handled 1.68 million tons of cargo in 2024, ranking it as the 5th busiest cargo airport in the United States. The cargo facilities are located in the southeast quadrant of the airport campus.

Rankings (2024)

• USA: 6th busiest airport by total passengers
• USA: #1 busiest by international passengers (North America's largest international gateway)
• World: ~11th busiest by total passengers
• Revenue: $1.3 billion (2024), +8% YoY
• Economic impact: ~$35.7 billion annually for NY-NJ region; ~158,000 supported jobs
• Award: Named Best Airport in North America (Business Traveller) for second consecutive year in 2024

Busiest Period

July and August are consistently the busiest months. July 2024 saw approximately 6.2 million passengers, making it the busiest month in JFK's history. Weather-related delays (primarily summer thunderstorms) account for over 55% of total delay minutes at JFK annually, making early arrival and airline delay alerts especially important for summer travellers.