The JFK AirTrain is the rail link that connects all of John F. Kennedy International Airport's terminals with each other and with New York City's public transport network. It is one of the fastest, cheapest and most traffic-proof ways to get between JFK and Manhattan. This guide explains how the AirTrain works, its routes and stations, fares and how to pay, and how to continue into the city by train or subway.
What is the JFK AirTrain?
The AirTrain is a driverless light-rail system that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It links JFK's five terminals on a continuous loop and connects to two stations on the edge of the airport — Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station — where you transfer to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or the New York City subway to reach Manhattan and beyond.
AirTrain routes and stations
- Terminal loop — connects Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8. Riding between terminals is free, making it the way to reach the right terminal or make a connection.
- Jamaica Station — connects to the LIRR (fastest to Midtown) and the E, J and Z subway lines.
- Howard Beach Station — connects to the A subway line toward Manhattan.
AirTrain fares and how to pay
Travelling between terminals is free. You only pay the AirTrain fare — US$9.25 (2026) — when you enter or exit the system at Jamaica or Howard Beach to connect with the city. Pay with OMNY (contactless tap) or a MetroCard at the station gates. The LIRR and subway fares are separate and paid on top.
Getting to Manhattan by AirTrain and train
The two main routes into the city are:
- AirTrain + LIRR (fastest): ride to Jamaica, then take the LIRR to Grand Central Madison or Penn Station in around 35 minutes total — the quickest public-transport option from JFK.
- AirTrain + subway (cheapest): the E train from Jamaica or the A train from Howard Beach reaches Manhattan for the lowest fare, though it takes longer.
For a full comparison with taxis and rideshare, see our JFK to Manhattan guide.
Tips for using the JFK AirTrain
- The AirTrain runs around the clock, so it works for early-morning and late-night flights when other options are limited.
- Cars are spacious and luggage-friendly, with no stairs between the AirTrain and the LIRR/subway platforms at Jamaica.
- It is immune to road traffic, so travel time is predictable even during rush hour.
- Tap the same OMNY card/device for the subway connection to keep things simple.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the JFK AirTrain cost?
The AirTrain fare is US$9.25 (2026), charged only when you enter or exit at Jamaica or Howard Beach station. Riding between JFK terminals is completely free. LIRR and subway fares are separate.
Is the AirTrain free between terminals?
Yes. Travelling between JFK's terminals on the AirTrain loop is free — you only pay when you connect to the city at Jamaica or Howard Beach.
How do I get from JFK to Manhattan by train?
Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then the LIRR to Grand Central Madison or Penn Station in about 35 minutes — the fastest public-transport route. For a cheaper option, connect to the E subway at Jamaica or the A subway at Howard Beach.
Does the JFK AirTrain run 24 hours?
Yes. The AirTrain operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which makes it reliable for very early or very late flights.
Which subway lines connect to the JFK AirTrain?
The E, J and Z lines connect at Jamaica Station, and the A line connects at Howard Beach Station. The LIRR also connects at Jamaica for the fastest ride into Manhattan.
