AirTrain JFK

AirTrain JFK
An AirTrain JFK train glides along its elevated tracks outside one of the airport terminals. The light rail system connects Long Island Rail Road passengers at Jamaica Station with JFK’s terminals, providing travelers from Long Island a fast and convenient way to reach their flights without the hassle of traffic or parking. File photo: Chie Inoue, licensed.

AirTrain JFK is a light rail system that provides fast, reliable, and cost-effective access to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens. For Long Island travelers, it serves as a vital connection between the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), New York City subway lines, and the airport’s passenger terminals. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, AirTrain JFK is often the easiest way to reach JFK without driving.

How AirTrain JFK Works

  • Route: AirTrain operates on two main loops:
    • Airport Terminals Loop – Free service that connects all JFK terminals, parking lots, hotels, and rental car facilities.
    • Jamaica and Howard Beach Lines – Links JFK Airport to regional transit hubs.
  • Connections:
    • From Jamaica Station, travelers can transfer to the LIRR (for Long Island service), NYC Subway E, J, Z lines, and MTA buses.
    • From Howard Beach Station, AirTrain connects to the A subway line, offering a direct route into Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan.

Why It Matters for Long Island Travelers

  • LIRR Integration: Long Island residents can take the LIRR to Jamaica Station, then transfer directly to AirTrain JFK for a seamless ride into the airport.
  • Time Savings: Avoids highway congestion, which can be heavy on the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) and Belt Parkway.
  • Cost Efficiency: Often cheaper than taxis, ride-shares, or parking at JFK.

Fares and Tickets

  • Within Airport Terminals: Free.
  • From Jamaica or Howard Beach Stations to JFK Terminals: $8.50 (payable with MetroCard/OMNY).
  • Combined LIRR + AirTrain Ticket: Discounted fares are available when purchased together through the MTA eTix app or at LIRR ticket machines.

Travel Snapshot Table

FeatureDetails
Service TypeAutomated Light Rail
Main Access PointsJamaica Station (LIRR, E/J/Z subway), Howard Beach Station (A subway)
FareFree within airport; $8.50 from transit hubs
Travel Time~10 minutes from Jamaica to JFK; ~12 minutes from Howard Beach
Best ForLong Island residents connecting to flights at JFK

Tips for Using AirTrain JFK

  • Buy a combined LIRR + AirTrain ticket to save time and money.
  • If you’re traveling with luggage, AirTrain cars are designed with extra space for bags.
  • Service runs 24/7, making it a dependable choice for early morning or late-night flights.

AirTrain JFK offers Long Island travelers a direct, affordable, and stress-free link to New York’s busiest international airport. By connecting the LIRR with JFK’s terminals, AirTrain ensures that residents and visitors alike have a smooth journey from Long Island to flights across the globe.