The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has unveiled a comprehensive plan to manage traffic at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) during the summer travel season, which coincides with peak construction for the airport’s $19 billion redevelopment program. The initiative aims to mitigate potential congestion by diverting vehicles from terminal frontages and encouraging public transit use.
Travelers are urged to utilize public transit options such as AirTrain JFK, with connections available from Jamaica or Howard Beach stations. “Whenever possible, we urge passengers to use public transit to the airport,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole.
For those who must drive, the Port Authority advises allowing extra time due to expected congestion. Ride app pickups for Terminals 4, 5, and 7 have been relocated to designated lots closer to JFK roadway exits. A free wait lot is available at AirTrain JFK’s Lefferts Blvd station for drop-offs and pick-ups.
An Airport Operations Center will monitor traffic conditions continuously, deploying additional personnel as needed. “Building a new, world-class JFK International Airport while maintaining full flight operations requires patience from passengers,” stated Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton.
Passengers are encouraged to visit Construction.JFKAirport.com for updates before heading to JFK. The agency also plans a media campaign highlighting travel volumes and construction impacts.
The ongoing redevelopment includes two new international terminals and expanded facilities designed to streamline airport navigation with fewer decision points and intersections. This transformation is part of the strategic framework announced in January 2017 under the JFK Vision Plan.
“These temporary inconveniences are part of creating a world-class airport that we will all be proud of,” O’Toole added.
