The Leading New York Airport at a Glance

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — commonly referred to as New York Airport — is the primary international gateway to the city and one of the busiest airports in the United States. Although four airports serve the New York metropolitan area (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark Liberty, and Stewart), JFK remains the main hub for long-haul and international flights, ranking among the most important aviation centers in the world.

History of JFK Airport

JFK Airport officially opened in 1948 under the name New York International Airport. However, locals commonly called it Idlewild Airport after the former Idlewild Beach Golf Course that once stood on the site. In 1963, following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the airport was renamed in his honor to commemorate his leadership and legacy.

Location and Importance

Located in the southeastern part of Queens County, approximately 16 miles (26 km) from Manhattan, JFK Airport is managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Serving over 62 million passengers annually and handling flights from every corner of the world, JFK stands as the main gateway to North America. In 2024 alone, the airport handled 63,265,972 passengers.

Quick Facts about JFK Airport

  • Official Name: John F. Kennedy International Airport
  • IATA Code: JFK
  • ICAO Code: KJFK
  • Location: Jamaica, Queens, New York, U.S.
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−05:00)
  • Distance from Manhattan: 16 miles / 26 km
  • Operator: Port Authority of New York & New Jersey

JFK Airport Layout

John F. Kennedy International Airport features 6 passenger terminals, 131 gates, and 4 runways. Although originally designed with more terminals, T3 and T6 were demolished in recent years. The airport layout forms a large “U”-shape, with each terminal serving specific airlines and flight types.

It’s worth noting that inter-terminal transfers at JFK can be challenging. Most connections require passengers to go through security checks again, as the airport’s internal shuttle buses operate landside. The only exceptions are:

  • Delta Airlines: seamless transfers between Terminals 2 and 4
  • American Airlines & JetBlue: connected operations between Terminals 5 and 8

Explore JFK Airport

Each terminal at JFK offers a full range of services — from restaurants and duty-free shops to currency exchange counters and VIP lounges. The airport also provides multiple parking facilities, car rental offices, and efficient public transport links to New York City.

About

JFK Airlines

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — one of the world’s leading aviation hubs — hosts more than 90 airlines offering both domestic and international flights. The airport serves as a major hub for American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, and it is the headquarters of JetBlue Airways. Additionally, JFK is a focus city for Norse Atlantic Airways and Polar Air Cargo.

From legacy carriers to low-cost airlines, passengers can reach nearly every corner of the globe from JFK. The airport’s six terminals handle an extensive range of destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Parking Facilities at JFK Airport

JFK Airport offers a wide variety of parking options for both short-term and long-term stays:

  • Six terminal parking lots are located near each passenger terminal — perfect for short-term or hourly parking.
  • Long-Term Parking Lot 9 (Lefferts Boulevard) is ideal for extended stays, connected to the terminals via the AirTrain JFK.
  • Kiss & Fly area — a convenient drop-off zone for quick departures.
  • Cell Phone Lots — free waiting zones for drivers picking up arriving passengers.

Transit Options from JFK Airport

Getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan or other parts of New York is simple and flexible. The airport is well connected by public transport, private transfers, and car rental services.

  • Taxi: Official New York yellow cabs offer fixed fares to Manhattan — a fast and comfortable choice.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked shuttles or private cars provide door-to-door convenience.
  • Car Rental: Major car hire companies operate at JFK, accessible via the AirTrain.
  • Subway: Take the AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach Station, then connect to the NYC Subway network.
  • LIRR (Long Island Rail Road): The fastest public transport to Manhattan — 20 minutes to Penn Station.
  • Bus: Several local MTA bus lines connect JFK to surrounding boroughs and neighborhoods.

Services & Amenities at JFK Airport

As one of the largest and most technologically advanced airports in the world, JFK Airport offers top-tier facilities designed to meet the needs of every traveler. Here’s what you’ll find:

  • Duty-Free Shops & Retail Boutiques
  • Restaurants, Cafes & Bars
  • Baggage Wrapping, Cleaning & Storage
  • Pharmacies & Medical Services
  • Banks, ATMs & Currency Exchange
  • Children’s Play Areas & Family Rooms
  • Lost & Found Offices
  • Prayer Rooms & Chapels
  • Lounges & Spa Facilities
  • Sleeping Pods & Airport Hotel
  • Pet Relief Zones
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Information Desks & Travel Agencies
  • Accessibility Services for PRM passengers

Contact Information

  • Official Name: John F. Kennedy International Airport
  • Address: Queens, New York, 11430, U.S.A.
  • Phone: +1 (718) 244-4444
  • Website: www.jfkairport.com

The City of New York

New York City isn’t just another metropolis — it’s the metropolis. Known worldwide as “The City That Never Sleeps”, New York is the beating heart of culture, business, and creativity. Towering skyscrapers, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-famous landmarks make every visit unforgettable.

From Times Square to Central Park, from Broadway theaters to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers endless possibilities. Manhattan’s elegance contrasts with the authenticity of Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem, while the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge stand as global icons of freedom and innovation.

New York is a city of energy, opportunity, and contrast — a place that captivates every traveler and turns a simple visit into a lifelong memory.