23 Dec 2025
New York Airport (JFK)
The Main Airport of the New York City
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.
FAQs
Which city is JFK Airport in?
JFK Airport is located in New York City (actually in Queens county). In fact, it is the main airport serving NY, and that’s why it is also known as New York Airport.
New York’s JFK Airport was originally known by what name?
When New York Airport first opened its door in 1948, it was named New York International Airport. Nevertheless, it was most commonly known as Idlewild Airport, as the airport’s construction resulted in the demolition of the Idlewild Beach Golf Course lying in the area. When President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, New York received his name as a tribute to his work and political career.
Is JFK the biggest airport?
JFK Airport isn’t the biggest airport globally. However, it is the principal aviation hub of NY, as well as one of the most important USA airports. It is the number one gateway to North America, welcoming passengers from all over the world. Thus, it is listed among the major airports at a universal level.
What are the 3 major airports in NYC?
Besides JFK Airport, two more aviation hubs serve New York City. Newark Liberty International Airport lies 12 miles (19km) from the city center and is considered the second-biggest airport in the area. On the other hand, LaGuardia Airport -11 miles (18km) from New York- mainly serves domestic flights.
What is the major airport in New York?
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK Airport) is the main airport in the area, handling both domestic and international flights. Housing more than 90 airlines and handling approximately 62 million passengers annually, it is listed among the busiest airports in the world.
Which airport should I fly out of New York?
New York JFK Airport is considered your best option. It is well connected to the city center while serving numerous destinations and hosting the vast majority of international as well as domestic airlines.
How far is it from JFK to New York City?
JFK Airport is located within a 16-mile (26km) distance from the city of New York. Thus, a ride from New York Airport to the city center lasts approximately 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, high traffic levels can raise the transfer duration even to 90 minutes!
Where is JFK Airport located?
New York Airport is located in Queens, in the Jamaica neighborhood. It is almost 16 miles (26km) away from Manhattan on its southeast side.
