Governor Kathy Hochul and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey have announced a 50 percent reduction in the AirTrain JFK single ride fare starting July 1 through Labor Day. This initiative aims to encourage public transit use during peak summer construction at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The airport is undergoing a $19 billion transformation project, which includes a new roadway network.
“With transformational construction underway at JFK, we’re taking steps to mitigate travel delays and affirm what’s always been true – there’s no better option than taking the train to the plane,” Governor Hochul stated. “As we kick off a busy summer, we’re making it more affordable for travelers to utilize the AirTrain, offering New Yorkers and visitors from around the world the best-in-class travel experience they deserve.”
The reduced fare of $4.25 applies at both Jamaica and Howard Beach stations, accessible via OMNY or MetroCard. Jamaica station is approximately 20 minutes from Grand Central Madison, Penn Station, or Atlantic Terminal via Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), with additional subway connections available at Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport and Howard Beach stations via A/E/J/Z lines.
For those needing to drive, the Port Authority has opened a drop-off/pick-up lot at the on-airport AirTrain JFK Lefferts Blvd station. This offers an eight-minute direct AirTrain ride to airport terminals, helping passengers avoid terminal congestion. Parking remains limited, and pre-booking is recommended via JFKAirport.com.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole emphasized reliability amid ongoing construction: “In the midst of JFK's monumental transformation, our priority remains ensuring travelers have reliable access amid peak construction. By halving AirTrain JFK fares this summer, we're incentivizing public transit in order to ease congestion during record-setting travel volumes.”
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton highlighted progress: “The historic, once-in-a-generation $19 billion transformation of JFK is gaining momentum by the day. We are entering our peak construction period while managing record passenger volumes... To that end, we are emphasizing the importance of public transit by reducing the AirTrain JFK fares by 50% this summer.”
Industry analysts predict record air passenger volumes this summer at JFK, potentially exceeding last year’s figures by 700,000 passengers. The dual challenge of high traveler numbers and peak construction activities will test airport operations through Labor Day.
The redevelopment includes constructing new Terminals One and Six, a ground transportation center, and rebuilding JFK’s roadway network with six miles of new roads designed for improved traffic flow. Construction on these projects began this spring.
A comprehensive media campaign has been launched by the Port Authority to inform travelers about expected impacts due to high volumes and ongoing construction.
