John F. Kennedy Airport Transfers (JFK)

Welcome to New York City! Now that you've landed at JFK, your adventure in the city of skyscrapers and endless energy can finally begin.

But let's be real—getting out of a massive airport like JFK can be a headache. The last thing you want after a flight is to battle chaotic taxi lines or drag your luggage through the public transport system.

That's where we come in. With TravelThru airport transfer services, you can skip the stress. Your private, pre-booked ride will be waiting to take you straight to your hotel or destination in the city. It’s the easiest way to start your trip.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about JFK, from its layout and amenities to the best ways to get into the city.

JFK Airport Overview

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)  is one of the world's premier international gateways. The airport is located 16 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan in Queens. This massive facility features five passenger terminals and serves over 63 million passengers annually.

The airport's current terminal configuration includes:

• Terminal 1: Serves various international airlines while offering a wide variety of dining and shopping options.

   

• Terminal 4: The largest terminal at JFK, hosting major international carriers including Delta Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and many European and Asian airlines.

   

• Terminal 5: Home to JetBlue, the second largest airline at JFK, and Cape Air. 

   

• Terminal 7: Primarily serves British Airways and other international carriers, featuring premium lounges and duty-free shopping.

   

• Terminal 8: Has transitioned to become a hub for American Airlines, British Airways, and other oneworld airlines.

Due to its size, having a JFK airport map handy on your phone can be very helpful.

Airlines at John F. Kennedy Airport

As a top global hub, JFK Airport serves nearly every major international airline. It is a major hub for American Airlines and Delta Air Lines and the home base for JetBlue. Other major carriers include:

• Air France
• British Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• Emirates
• Etihad Airways
• Japan Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air
• Lufthansa
• Qatar Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

JFK Airport Parking

JFK Airport parking offers various options to suit different travel needs and budgets:

• Terminal parking: Located closest to each terminal building, offering maximum convenience for short-term stays and quick departures.

   

• Long-term parking: More economical options for extended trips, with regular shuttle service connecting to all terminals.

   

• Economy parking: Budget-friendly lots with shuttle transportation, perfect for longer vacations or business trips.

   

• Valet parking: Premium service available at select terminals, offering the ultimate in convenience for luxury travelers.

   

• Off-site parking: Numerous private facilities near the airport provide competitive rates with shuttle services included.

John F. Kennedy International Airport Lounges

JFK offers an incredible selection of world-class lounges for travelers seeking comfort and luxury.

• The Centurion Lounge (T4): American Express’s flagship lounge is known for its premium food and beverage program, stylish design, and exclusive amenities.

   

• Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (T4): A newer addition offering gourmet food, a craft cocktail bar, and wellness areas.

   

• Delta Sky Club (T4): Delta’s flagship club features an outdoor Sky Deck with incredible runway views.

   

• Airline-Specific Lounges: Many international carriers, such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Emirates, have their own exclusive lounges for premium passengers, offering top-tier dining and luxurious comfort.

Hotels Near JFK Airport

• TWA Hotel: This is the only true on-airport hotel, located at the former TWA Flight Center. It’s a destination in itself, featuring stunning mid-century modern design, a rooftop pool with runway views, and direct access to Terminal 5.

   

• Crowne Plaza JFK Airport New York City: A popular choice among the many hotels near the airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a quality restaurant, and a reliable 24-hour shuttle service to the airport.

   

• Hilton Garden Inn Queens/JFK Airport: Offering modern amenities and excellent service, this hotel provides a complimentary shuttle and is just minutes away from the terminals.

Airport Transportation Options To/From JFK

TravelThru Transfer Services in NYC

Your time in New York is precious, so why waste the first hour in a travel scrum? Skip the taxi queue and the subway hassle with a pre-booked ride—it’s the most direct and relaxing way to start your trip.

With Travelthru, you get exactly what you need. We have sleek sedans for business travelers and spacious SUVs or vans for families. Your professional driver will personally greet you in the terminal, so you'll never feel lost.

Best of all, you can relax knowing we’ve got everything covered. We track your flight for delays, so your driver is always on time. Your only job is to enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride into the city.

Other Transfer Options at JFK

• Yellow Taxi: Follow the signs to the official taxi stand outside your terminal. There is a flat fare for trips between JFK and Manhattan, not including tolls or tips. Be prepared for long queues during peak times.

   

• AirTrain JFK: This rail system connects all terminals to the subway and Long Island Rail Road, offering an economical connection to Manhattan. However, it requires managing luggage on crowded trains and multiple transfers.

   

• Express buses: Several bus services operate between JFK and various Manhattan locations, providing budget-friendly transportation with scheduled stops throughout the city.

Things to Do in New York City, NY

• Iconic landmarks: See the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, go to the top of the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

   

• Museums & culture: Check out New York's awesome cultural spots like The Met, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History. And while you're there, catch a world-class show on Broadway!

   

• Urban oases & vibrant hubs: Relax in Central Park, get dazzled by the lights of Times Square, and explore the unique neighborhoods of Greenwich Village, SoHo, and DUMBO.

How to Get Around NYC and Beyond

TravelThru's Transfer Services in NYC

Think your East Coast trip has to be limited to just NYC? Think again! Let us be your ride to explore the amazing places just outside the city.

We can take you on a comfortable day trip to sip wine in the Hudson Valley or relax on the beach in the Hamptons. We also offer easy, direct rides to other great cities like Philly, Boston, or Atlantic City.

Or, if you just need a car for a few hours to get around NYC, our hourly chauffeur service is perfect. It’s like having your own private driver on call for sightseeing, shopping, or business. You tell us where to go, and we’ll handle the driving.

Other Ways to Get Around NYC

• NYC Subway System: The most extensive and efficient way to travel throughout the five boroughs, operating 24/7 with connections to virtually every neighborhood and attraction.

   

• Yellow Taxis & Green Boro Cabs: Iconic New York transportation available throughout Manhattan and the outer boroughs, though traffic can significantly impact journey times.

   

• Citi Bike: New York's bike-sharing system offers an eco-friendly way to explore shorter distances, with stations located throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.

   

• NYC Ferry: Scenic water transportation connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, offering beautiful skyline views during your commute.

   

• Walking: Many of NYC's top attractions are within walking distance of each other, and exploring on foot allows you to discover hidden gems and experience the city's incredible street life.