John F. Kennedy International Airport, or JFK as it’s commonly known, is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major international gateway to the United States and New York City. If you’re planning to travel to or from New York, knowing Where Is Jfk Airport located and how to get there is essential.
JFK Airport is situated in the borough of Queens, New York City, specifically in the Jamaica neighborhood. It’s located approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) southeast of Lower Manhattan. Geographically, JFK occupies a large area on the southwestern edge of Long Island, bordered by Jamaica Bay to the south and the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) to the west. The airport’s address is Jamaica, NY 11430, USA.
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Getting to and from JFK Airport is relatively straightforward thanks to a variety of transportation options.
By Car:
JFK is accessible by car via several major roadways. The Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) provides direct access to the airport from the west and connects to other major highways like the Grand Central Parkway and the Long Island Expressway (I-495). The Belt Parkway also offers access from the east and west. Navigating with GPS using the address “Jamaica, NY 11430” will provide the most direct route based on current traffic conditions. Keep in mind that traffic around JFK and in New York City in general can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Public Transportation:
For a more economical and often less stressful option, public transportation to JFK is readily available.
- AirTrain JFK: This is an essential part of navigating to and from JFK. AirTrain is an intra-airport rail system that connects all airport terminals to the city’s public transportation network. It links to Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) at Jamaica Station and to the New York City Subway at Jamaica and Howard Beach stations.
- Subway: The A subway line connects to AirTrain at the Howard Beach – JFK Airport station, offering service to and from Manhattan and Brooklyn. The E, J, and Z subway lines connect to AirTrain at Jamaica Station, providing access to and from various parts of Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn.
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): The LIRR provides train service to Jamaica Station from Penn Station in Manhattan, as well as from various points across Long Island. From Jamaica Station, you can transfer to the AirTrain to reach all JFK terminals.
- Bus: Several MTA bus routes also serve the areas around JFK Airport, though the subway and AirTrain are generally faster and more convenient for reaching the terminals directly.
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Ride-Sharing and Taxis:
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as traditional taxis, are widely available for transportation to and from JFK Airport. These offer door-to-door service but can be more expensive and subject to traffic delays. Designated pick-up and drop-off areas are clearly marked at each terminal.
About JFK Airport:
Beyond its location, JFK Airport is a massive and constantly evolving transportation hub. Currently undergoing significant redevelopment, including the New Terminal One project, JFK is striving to enhance the passenger experience and modernize its facilities. As Dr. Gerrard P. Bushell, Executive Chair of The New Terminal One stated, “With the support of Governor Hochul and the Port Authority, we will deliver a world-class terminal…and help spur regional economic growth.”
This sentiment is echoed by other leaders involved in the project. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. highlighted that “The new Terminal One will be filled with economic opportunities for our MWBE firms and businesses and wonderful amenities that will make it such a welcoming place for international travelers arriving at and departing from ‘The World’s Borough.'”
The ongoing improvements aim to create a more efficient, sustainable, and user-friendly airport. Assemblymember Khaleel M. Anderson noted the project “recommits to a modernized, unified, more efficient, and sustainable John F. Kennedy International Airport,” emphasizing the importance of “local hiring, entrepreneurship, and business development.”
Knowing where is JFK Airport is just the first step in your journey. Understanding the transportation options and the ongoing developments will help ensure a smoother and more pleasant travel experience when using this major international airport. Whether you’re arriving in New York or departing to destinations around the globe, JFK’s location in Queens provides convenient access to and from the city and surrounding areas.
