The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has announced new measures to alleviate traffic congestion at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) during the anticipated record summer travel season. The forecast predicts over 18 million passengers, a new record and an increase of 700,000 from last year, coinciding with peak construction activity for the airport's $19 billion redevelopment.
Starting June 26, for-hire vehicle (FHV) pickups for arriving passengers at JFK’s Terminal 4 will be relocated to a remote pickup lot from noon to 2 a.m., with continuous free shuttle bus service every one to two minutes. Departing passengers using FHVs will still be dropped off in front of Terminal 4, while taxis remain available at all hours.
This strategy is modeled after a successful approach used during LaGuardia Airport's redevelopment. The remote lot is adjacent to the driver/vehicle waiting area, facilitating quicker pickups and easier access to major highways. This measure aims to divert up to 13,000 vehicles daily from terminal frontage.
Terminal 5 customers have been using a similar remote pickup lot since June 2023. Additionally, parking fees will vary more significantly between terminal-adjacent facilities and long-term lots this summer to encourage use of less expensive remote options. Pre-booking parking spots is recommended for cost savings and guaranteed availability.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole emphasized the need for travelers to plan carefully: “More than ever before, travelers driving to John F. Kennedy International Airport this summer must plan their trip...allow more time...and be patient as we manage the perfect storm of record summer travel and peak construction activity.”
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton highlighted the challenges: “Serving a record number of summer travelers this year while construction...is at its peak is an enormous challenge that requires strategies...Using a remote for-hire vehicle pick-up lot during peak hours and encouraging public transit will result in faster and more reliable access.”
The Port Authority anticipates handling approximately 700,000 more passengers than last summer through Labor Day amid ongoing major construction projects including New Terminal One, Terminal 6, a ground transportation center, and roadway network rebuilds.
A comprehensive traffic management strategy includes:
- A staffed airport operations center providing round-the-clock coordination.
- Real-time updates on flight activity and traffic conditions.
- Adjustments in roadway construction based on operational needs.
- Increased staffing including police officers, traffic managers, taxi dispatchers, parking attendants, and customer service representatives across terminals.
Travelers are encouraged to use AirTrain JFK from Jamaica or Howard Beach stations or take advantage of discounted fare cards for AirTrain rides. Drivers should avoid terminal frontages by using free waiting lots such as the newly opened drop-off/pickup lot at AirTrain JFK Lefferts Blvd station.
In January 2017, the JFK Vision Plan was launched aiming to transform JFK into a world-class airport. Significant developments include:
- The $9.5 billion New Terminal One project commenced in September 2022.
- The $4.2 billion Terminal 6 project began in February 2023.
- A $1.5 billion expansion of Terminal 4 led by Delta Air Lines is nearing completion.
- A $400 million expansion of Terminal 8 was completed in November 2022.
These privately financed projects combined with Port Authority’s investments represent an extensive public-private partnership aimed at transforming JFK into a premier global gateway.
