John F. Kennedy International Airport
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aviation |
| Founded | 1948 |
| Headquarters | Queens, New York City , United States |
Area served | New York metropolitan area |
| Products | Airport services, passenger and cargo air transport |
| Owner | Port Authority of New York and New Jersey |
John F. Kennedy International Airport (IATA: JFK, ICAO: KJFK) stands as a key international gateway for New York City and its surrounding metropolitan region. Positioned on Long Island’s southwestern edge within Queens, adjacent to Jamaica Bay, JFK ranks as the busiest among the seven airports in the New York system. It is the sixth most active airport in the United States and holds the distinction of being North America’s busiest international commercial airport. Spanning 5,200 acres, it is the largest airport serving the New York metropolitan area. More than 90 airlines operate at JFK, providing nonstop or direct routes to destinations on all six inhabited continents.
Located in Queens’ Jamaica neighborhood roughly 16 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan, JFK comprises five passenger terminals alongside four runways. Access to the airport is primarily via automobile, bus, shuttle services, or rail through the JFK Expressway and Interstate 678 (Van Wyck Expressway). It functions as a hub for American Airlines and Delta Air Lines and serves as JetBlue’s principal base of operations. Historically, JFK was also a hub for airlines such as Braniff, Eastern, Flying Tigers, National, Northeast, Northwest, Pan Am, Seaboard World, Tower Air, and TWA.
Initially opened in 1948 under the name New York International Airport and widely known as Idlewild Airport, it was renamed John F. Kennedy International Airport in 1963 following the assassination of President Kennedy.
Construction
John F. Kennedy International Airport was inaugurated in 1948 as New York International Airport but was commonly referred to as Idlewild Airport after the Idlewild Beach Golf Course that previously occupied its site. The airport was developed to alleviate congestion at LaGuardia Field, which had been operational since 1939. In late 1941, Mayor Fiorello La Guardia identified marshlands around Jamaica Bay, including the Idlewild Golf Course and an airstrip named Jamaica Sea-Airport, as the location for the new airfield. Ownership of this land was transferred to New York City by the end of that year. Construction commenced in 1943 although final plans for the layout were still under consideration.
An initial government investment of approximately US$60 million was allocated, designating roughly 75% of the Idlewild site for development. For a brief period in 1943, the airport was renamed Major General Alexander E. Anderson Airport to honor a local National Guard leader; however, Mayor La Guardia vetoed this change. The New York City Council reinstated the name despite "Idlewild" remaining widely used by the public. In 1944, authorization was granted to acquire an additional 1,100 acres.
The Port of New York Authority (currently known as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey) secured a lease on the Idlewild property from New York City in 1947 and continues its management under this agreement. In March 1948, the City Council officially designated it New York International Airport, Anderson Field, though "Idlewild" remained common parlance until December 24, 1963. The airport was designed with an emphasis on being the world’s largest and most efficient facility, aiming to minimize congestion and confusion.
Early operations
Idlewild’s inaugural flight took place on July 1, 1948; this event was attended by U.S. President Harry S. Truman and Governor of New York Thomas E. Dewey, who were both candidates for president that year. Shortly thereafter, the Port Authority revoked foreign carriers' permissions to operate at LaGuardia Airport and gradually relocated them to Idlewild over subsequent years. Initially equipped with a single terminal building measuring approximately 30,000 square feet, expansions by 1949 increased terminal space to around 150,000 square feet. Additional infrastructure developments included a control tower erected in 1952 along with new buildings and taxiways.
The airport opened with six runways while a seventh was under construction; however, runways designated 1L and 7L were reserved but never utilized. Runways currently in service include 31R and 31L; others such as runway 1R were closed in 1957 and runway 7R around 1966. Runway 4L became operational in 1949 followed by runway 4R about ten years later. A smaller runway numbered 14/32 remained active until 1990 primarily serving general aviation and commuter flights.
The first jet aircraft to arrive at Idlewild was an Avro Jetliner from Toronto on April 18, 1950; this flight carried what is considered the world’s first jet airmail shipment. A policy introduced by the Port Authority in 1951 effectively prohibited jet aircraft due to noise concerns until testing approved the Sud Aviation Caravelle prototype landing in May 1957. Later that year, Soviet Tupolev Tu-104 jets were denied landing rights pending noise evaluations.
In 1951 Idlewild averaged about 73 daily airline operations; this number rose sharply to approximately 242 daily flights by 1952 when Newark Airport temporarily closed following fatal accidents. During this period flights were rerouted to Idlewild and LaGuardia owing to their safer over-water departure routes. Newark resumed operations in November 1952 with revised flight patterns circumventing Elizabeth. Between 1951 and 1953 traffic increased at Idlewild with L-1049 Constellations and DC-7 aircraft bypassing LaGuardia initially. By April of 1957 weekly departures reached roughly 1,283 with Eastern Air Lines operating about 250 flights weekly followed by National Airlines at approximately 150 and Pan American near 130 departures.
Separate terminals
By 1954, Idlewild had become the leading international air traffic hub worldwide. The Port Authority's initial blueprint featured a single terminal with 55 gates; however, major carriers objected, arguing it would not meet future demand. Architect Wallace Harrison then suggested constructing distinct terminals for each key airline, which simplified building logistics and fostered architectural rivalry. The updated 1955 proposal comprised seven terminals: five dedicated to individual airlines, one shared by three carriers, and another for international arrivals. This plan also included an 11-story control tower, parking facilities, taxiways, and a central reflecting lagoon. Although the airport was originally designed for aircraft weighing up to 300,000 pounds gross, modifications in the late 1960s were necessary to accommodate Boeing 747s.
The International Arrivals Building (IAB), crafted by SOM, opened its doors in December 1957. Extending nearly 2,300 feet alongside runway 7R, it incorporated innovative "finger" piers to boost aircraft docking capacity. After being expanded in 1970 to install jetways, the facility became overcrowded and was ultimately demolished in 2000 to make way for Terminal 4.
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines inaugurated Terminal 7 (later renamed Terminal 9) in October 1959, a SOM-designed structure similar to the IAB; it was taken down in 2008. Eastern Air Lines debuted Terminal 1 in November 1959; this was replaced by the current Terminal 1 in 1995. American Airlines launched Terminal 8 in February 1960, designed by Kahn and Jacobs, featuring a remarkable 317-foot stained-glass facade by Robert Sowers—the largest globally until 1979. This facade was removed during the terminal's demolition in 2007 due to prohibitive removal expenses.
Pan American World Airways introduced the Worldport (Terminal 3) in 1960, designed by Tippetts-Abbett-McCarthy-Stratton with a distinctive elliptical roof extending 114 feet over the loading zone. It was among the earliest terminals equipped with movable jetways, replacing outdoor boarding stairs. The Worldport was demolished in 2013.
The TWA Flight Center opened in 1962 under Trans World Airlines, designed by Eero Saarinen with an iconic winged-bird form. Following TWA’s closure in 2001, JetBlue and the Port Authority developed a new Terminal 5 around the Saarinen structure, which began operations in October 2008. The original terminal has since been transformed into the TWA Hotel.
Terminal 2 was jointly opened by Northwest Orient, Braniff International Airways, and Northeast Airlines in November 1962; it was demolished in 2023 to allow construction of a new Terminal 1 as part of an $18 billion redevelopment scheduled for completion by 2026.
National Airlines unveiled the Sundrome (Terminal 6) in 1969, designed by I.M. Pei featuring pioneering all-glass mullions. In 2000, United Airlines and the Port Authority announced plans to redevelop Terminals 5 and 6. Terminal 6 served JetBlue from 2001 until its demolition in October 2011 to expand JetBlue’s Terminal 5 gates and aircraft parking areas.
Later operation
On December 24, 1963, shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, the airport was renamed John F. Kennedy International Airport following a proposal by Mayor Robert F. Wagner Jr. Initially assigned the code KIA, it was changed to JFK in 1968 to avoid connotations with the Vietnam War acronym killed in action. The original codes IDL and KIDL were reassigned to Indianola Municipal Airport in Mississippi.
Jet service commenced at Idlewild during 1958–59, propelling JFK to become New York’s busiest airport—surpassing LaGuardia and Newark combined from 1962 through 1967—and ranking as the second busiest airport nationwide with a peak of 403,981 operations recorded in 1967. LaGuardia upgraded its infrastructure throughout the ’60s to balance traffic volumes by the mid-1970s; Newark maintained third place until the ’80s. The supersonic Concorde operated transatlantic flights to JFK from its introduction in 1977 until retirement in 2003.
After decades of planning for a direct rail link, construction of the AirTrain JFK people-mover began in 1998. Despite setbacks including delays and a fatal accident during testing, it opened on December 17, 2003, connecting airport terminals with New York City Subway and Long Island Rail Road stations at Howard Beach and Jamaica.
Major terminal developments included opening Terminal 1 in 1998 and inaugurating Terminal 4 in a $1.4 billion project in 2001 as a replacement for the International Arrivals Building. JetBlue’s Terminal 5 incorporates the historic TWA Flight Center structure; meanwhile Terminals 8 and 9 were replaced by a new Terminal 8 serving American Airlines. In 2008, the Port Authority approved a $20 million planning study aimed at redeveloping Terminals 2 and 3—the hub for Delta Air Lines.
JFK became the first U.S. airport to host an Airbus A380 passenger flight on March 19, 2007 (operated by Lufthansa), followed by Emirates’ inaugural scheduled A380 service at Terminal 4 in August 2008. Although Emirates suspended A380 flights in late 2009 due to demand fluctuations, they resumed service with A380s in November 2010. Other airlines operating A380s at JFK include Singapore Airlines (New York–Frankfurt–Singapore), Lufthansa (New York–Frankfurt), Korean Air and Asiana Airlines (New York–Seoul), Etihad Airways (New York–Abu Dhabi), as well as Emirates on New York–Dubai/Milan routes. On December 8, 2015, Qatar Airways introduced its first commercial Airbus A350 flight on its New York–Doha route.
Currently, JFK hosts the world’s longest commercial flight operated by Singapore Airlines Flights SQ23 and SQ24 between Singapore and New York JFK using Airbus A350-900ULR aircraft launched in 2020.
Notable Heists
In April 1967, the Air France robbery saw affiliates of the Lucchese crime family seize $420,000 (equivalent to approximately $ million today) from the Air France cargo facility. This event marked the largest cash theft in the United States at that period. Central participants included Henry Hill, Robert McMahon, Tommy DeSimone, and Montague Montemurro, who acted based on information provided by McMahon. Hill attributed this operation to enhancing his reputation within the Mafia.
Air France regularly transported American currency exchanged in Southeast Asia destined for U.S. deposits, often carrying multiple $60,000 bundles. The group led by Hill gained entry into a cement-block strong room where the cash was kept, infiltrating the unsecured cargo terminal without resistance and absconding with seven bags. The theft was only uncovered on the following Monday.
The Lufthansa heist, which occurred on December 11, 1978, at the same airport, resulted in an estimated haul of US$5.875 million (equivalent to about US$ million today), including $5 million in cash and $875,000 worth of jewelry—making it the largest cash robbery ever on U.S. soil at that time.
James Burke, associated with the Lucchese crime family, is believed to have orchestrated this heist but was never formally charged. He reportedly arranged several murders to prevent exposure and maintain exclusive control over the stolen goods. The sole conviction connected to this crime was that of Louis Werner, an airport employee involved in its planning.
None of the stolen cash or jewelry has been recovered to date. This heist remains one of the most extensively investigated crimes in U.S. history; related arrests persisted until as late as 2014, although these ultimately led to acquittals.
Rail
Every line within AirTrain JFK, the airport’s dedicated rail system, stops at all passenger terminals and serves Federal Circle, which includes long-term parking, as well as two multimodal rapid transit hubs: Howard Beach and Jamaica. Travel within airport boundaries is free of charge; however, transfers beyond these stations require payment via OMNY or MetroCard and provide connections to the New York City Subway, Long Island Rail Road, and MTA Bus services.
Bus
As of , the bus route services Terminal 8, while other routes such as provide access to JFK's cargo terminals. The Q10 and B15 buses connect with the Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain station offering free transfers. Due to ongoing construction projects, bus routes B15, Q3, and Q10 are scheduled to resume service to Terminal 5 by 2026. Payment for bus fares is made through OMNY or MetroCard, with complimentary transfers available to subway lines.
Road Access
Access to JFK primarily occurs via the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) or the JFK Expressway, both linked to the Belt Parkway and local roads serving neighborhoods such as South Ozone Park and Springfield Gardens. The airport provides multi-level parking garages adjacent to terminals, surface lots within the Central Terminal Area, and a long-term parking facility capable of accommodating over 17,000 vehicles. On-site amenities include a travel plaza featuring a food court, a gas station, and a Tesla Supercharger station expanded from four charging stalls to twelve.
Taxis and other for-hire vehicles (FHV) operating at JFK are regulated by the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission. In 2019, the PANYNJ implemented an "airport access fee" surcharge on rides provided by FHVs and taxis; revenue from this fee supports capital improvement projects.
Overview
JFK Airport comprises five operational terminals—1, 4, 5, 7, and 8—offering a combined total of 130 gates.
Arranged in a distorted U-shape around central infrastructure such as parking facilities and a power plant, these terminals (excluding the former Tower Air terminal) are interconnected by the AirTrain JFK system and surrounding roadways. The airport’s directional signage was created by Paul Mijksenaar. According to a 2006 study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates in collaboration with Aviation Week, JFK ranked second for passenger satisfaction among major U.S. airports.
Before the early 1990s, terminals were named after their main airline tenants, except Terminal 4, which was known as the International Arrivals Building at that time. Subsequently, all terminals were assigned numbers with the exception of the Tower Air terminal. Management of JFK terminals is typically handled by airlines or airline alliances; Terminal 4 is uniquely operated by the Schiphol Group. Each terminal is equipped to process international arrivals without requiring pre-clearance.
Transferring between terminals generally involves exiting security checkpoints, utilizing the AirTrain service, and passing through security screening again.
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 was inaugurated in 1998 by the Terminal One Group—a coalition including Air France, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, and Lufthansa—to replace the previous Eastern Air Lines terminal and better accommodate international flights.
This terminal serves SkyTeam carriers such as Air France, China Eastern, Korean Air, Saudia, and Scandinavian Airlines; Star Alliance members including Air China, Air New Zealand, Asiana Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Egyptair, EVA Air, Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal, and Turkish Airlines; as well as Oneworld airline Royal Air Maroc. Additional airlines operating here include Air Serbia, Azores Airlines, Cayman Airways, Flair Airlines, ITA Airways, Neos, Philippine Airlines, and Viva.
Designed by William Nicholas Bodouva + Associates, Terminal 1 is one of only two JFK terminals equipped to handle Airbus A380 aircraft—serving Korean Air’s Seoul–Incheon route and Lufthansa’s Munich route. Until 2003, it was also the base for Air France’s Concorde flights. The terminal contains 11 gates.
Terminal 4
Terminal 4 was developed by LCOR, Inc., with management entrusted to JFKIAT (IAT) LLC—a subsidiary of the Schiphol Group—marking it as the first U.S. airport terminal operated by a foreign airport company. It currently features 48 gates spread over two concourses and functions as Delta Air Lines’ principal hub at JFK.
- Concourse A (gates A2–A12, A14–A17, A19, A21) primarily accommodates Asian carriers alongside some European airlines and Delta Connection flights.
- Concourse B (gates B20, B22–B55) serves domestic and international flights for Delta and its SkyTeam partners.
Airlines operating from Terminal 4 include SkyTeam members Aeromexico, Air Europa, China Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Kenya Airways, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, and XiamenAir; Star Alliance carriers such as Air India, Avianca, Copa Airlines, and Singapore Airlines; plus non-alliance airlines like Emirates (notably its Airbus A380 service to Dubai), Etihad Airways (A380 service to Abu Dhabi), JetBlue (handling late-night international arrivals), and various LATAM airlines.
Opened in 2001 with design by SOM (Skidmore Owings & Merrill), this $1.4 billion facility replaced JFK’s original International Arrivals Building from 1957 designed by the same firm. It boasts a mezzanine-level AirTrain station alongside spacious check-in areas and extensive retail options.
A major expansion completed in May 2013 at a cost of $1.4 billion introduced automated checked-baggage screening systems; centralized security screening on the fourth floor; nine new international gates; upgraded U.S. Customs facilities; and Delta’s largest Sky Club lounge at that time. Improvements that year also enhanced connectivity to Terminal 2 via shuttle services and added a new bus holdroom near gate B20. Subsequently, a $175 million Phase II expansion added eleven regional jet gates by January 2015 to compensate for capacity lost following the demolition of Terminals 2 and 3.
By 2017 plans were underway to further increase Terminal 4’s passenger capacity as part of broader JFK modernization initiatives. In early 2020 Governor Cuomo announced a $3.8 billion redevelopment project including a 16-gate extension to Concourse A along with upgrades to arrival/departure halls and roadway improvements. Due to financial setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic this scope was reduced in April 2021 to $1.5 billion focusing on modernization of arrival/departure areas plus ten additional gates in Concourse A. Delta consolidated its operations entirely within Terminal 4 during early 2023 concurrent with gate openings and debuted a new Sky Club in Concourse A. The airline plans to launch its largest exclusive Delta One lounge by June 2024.
In October 2020 American Express opened a Centurion lounge within Terminal 4 after beginning construction in 2019. This facility expands the headhouse near gate A2 offering approximately 15,000 square feet encompassing dining venues, bars, and fitness amenities.
In 2024 Terminal 4 broadened its Arts & Culture program introducing digital and static photography exhibitions developed in collaboration with the Cradle of Aviation Museum; unveiled a Queens-themed mural created by local artist Zeehan Wazed; showcased employee photography displays; and installed the first freestanding airport hologram device in partnership with Proto hologram technology. This installation features Bronx Zoo animals and has hosted live hologram appearances by comedian Howie Mandel designed to engage travelers.
Terminal 5
Opened in 2008, Terminal 5 serves as the main hub and principal tenant facility for JetBlue at JFK Airport. It also accommodates Cape Air and Sun Country Airlines. To improve international connectivity, JetBlue inaugurated the International Arrivals Concourse (T5i) on November 12, 2014.
The terminal, designed by Gensler and constructed by Turner Construction, incorporates the preserved TWA Flight Center, originally designed by Eero Saarinen. This iconic building is now integrated into the terminal complex and was reopened as the TWA Hotel in May 2019. Terminal 5 operates with 29 gates (1–12 and 14–30), where gates 25 through 30 are dedicated to international flights without pre-clearance; gates 28 to 30 were introduced alongside the T5i addition.
In 2015, Aer Lingus launched a lounge within Terminal 5. That same year, JetBlue unveiled the T5 Rooftop & Wooftop Lounge near Gate 28, available to all travelers. In August 2016, JetBlue appointed Fraport USA as the concessions developer to align retail options with its brand identity. Additionally, a significant renovation of the check-in lobby was finalized in summer 2016 to enhance passenger comfort and efficiency.
Terminal 7
Constructed in 1970 and designed by GMW Architects, Terminal 7 was initially built for British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) and Air Canada. Until 2022, it was operated by British Airways, making it unique as the only U.S. airport terminal managed by a foreign airline. British Airways also used this terminal for its Concorde operations until their cessation in 2003.
Airlines operating from Terminal 7 include Oneworld member Alaska Airlines, Star Alliance affiliates such as Air Canada Express, All Nippon Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and LOT Polish Airlines, along with non-alliance carriers including Aer Lingus, Condor, Frontier Airlines, HiSky, Icelandair, Kuwait Airways, and Norse Atlantic Airways.
The terminal underwent a $120 million expansion and refurbishment in 1989, led by William Nicholas Bodouva + Associates. Later, in 1997, British Airways secured Port Authority approval for a $250 million renovation designed by Corgan Associates, which was completed in 2003 and resulted in a modern facility featuring 12 gates.
In 2015, British Airways extended its lease at Terminal 7 through 2022 with an option for an additional three years and announced plans for a $65 million upgrade. Nevertheless, the terminal could not accommodate British Airways’ Airbus A380 aircraft, restricting operations on the high-demand London–Heathrow to New York route despite prior marketing initiatives. Consequently, British Airways decided to move operations to Terminal 8 alongside its Oneworld partners and chose not to renew its lease at Terminal 7.
Currently managed by JFK Millennium Partners—a consortium comprising JetBlue, RXR Realty, and Vantage Airport Group—Terminal 7 is slated for demolition with plans to replace it with a new Terminal 6.
In late 2020, after a five-year hiatus, United Airlines announced its return to JFK, resuming nonstop transcontinental flights from Terminal 7 to its west coast hubs in San Francisco and Los Angeles starting March 2021. However, United suspended these services again on October 29, 2022.
Terminal 8
Terminal 8 functions as a key hub within the Oneworld alliance, predominantly managed by American Airlines, which initiated an extensive eight-year development project in 1999 to establish the largest passenger terminal at JFK. Initially planned to include 59 gates and a check-in area surpassing the size of Giants Stadium, financial limitations ultimately led to a reduction, resulting in 36 gates and a more compact headhouse. Built in four stages from 2005 until its inauguration in 2007, this terminal replaced the former Terminals 8 and 9. American Airlines remains the principal operator here, alongside other Oneworld partners such as Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, and Royal Jordanian. Additionally, non-alliance airlines including China Southern Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines also utilize Terminal 8.
In 2019, expansion plans were unveiled to better accommodate additional widebody aircraft as British Airways and Iberia transitioned from Terminal 7 prior to its scheduled demolition. Construction for this expansion commenced in January 2020 and concluded in 2022, adding four hardstands while keeping the gate count unchanged. British Airways relocated operations to Terminal 8 in November 2022, completing the move by December. Iberia followed suit in December 2022, Japan Airlines shifted in May 2023, and Hawaiian Airlines began service here in April 2025. Alaska Airlines has transferred some flights already and intends to move all remaining services by October 2025.
Terminal 8 covers an area twice that of Madison Square Garden and offers a wide array of retail shops and dining venues. It includes 84 ticket counters, 44 self-service kiosks, ten security lanes, and a U.S. Customs facility capable of processing over 1,600 passengers per hour. The terminal’s annual throughput capacity reaches approximately 12.8 million travelers. Amenities include one American Airlines Admirals Club along with three exclusive lounges—Greenwich, Soho, and Chelsea—designed for frequent flyers.
The facility consists of 31 gates: Concourse B houses 14 gates (1–8,10,12,14,16,18,20), while Concourse C contains 17 gates (31–47). These concourses are linked by a tunnel equipped with moving walkways. Artistic elements within the terminal feature a mural showcasing 70 prominent cities worldwide, artworks celebrating American Airlines’ heritage, and a mosaic portraying the original terminal building that operated from 1960 to 2008.
Reconstruction
On January 4, 2017, then-Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo revealed an ambitious $7 to $10 billion initiative aimed at modernizing much of JFK Airport’s infrastructure. The Airport Master Plan Advisory Panel highlighted that JFK ranked 59th among the world’s top 100 airports according to Skytrax, yet faced significant capacity challenges due to increasing passenger volumes. Forecasts projected growth from the then-current figure of 60 million passengers annually to roughly 75 million by 2020 and up to 100 million by mid-century.
The master plan emphasized several critical actions: expanding recently developed terminals; relocating older facilities; redesigning highway ramps; adding lanes to the Van Wyck Expressway; extending AirTrain JFK trainsets or integrating them with New York City’s transit network; and reconstructing Jamaica station to provide direct connections for Long Island Rail Road and subway services.
Although no definitive commencement date was announced initially, by July 2017 Cuomo’s administration began requesting proposals for the master plan’s execution. Upon completion, JFK is anticipated to feature a total of 149 gates—145 equipped with jet bridges and four hardstands available. Earlier considerations also included enhancing AirTrain capacity and widening key expressway connectors at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion; however, these components remain pending confirmation.
New Terminal 1
In October 2018, Governor Cuomo announced a $13 billion initiative to modernize JFK Airport’s passenger infrastructure, including the construction of two new international terminals. One of these terminals, a $7 billion facility spanning 2.8 million square feet with 23 gates, is set to replace Terminals 1, 2, and the unused Terminal 3 area. This terminal is being financed and developed through a collaboration involving Munich Airport Group, Lufthansa, Air France, Korean Air, and Japan Airlines. All 23 gates will serve international flights—22 designed for widebody aircraft (including four capable of accommodating the A380) and one for narrowbody planes. The project also entails redesigning adjacent road networks.
On December 13, 2021, Governor Kathy Hochul provided an update: the cost of the new Terminal 1 had risen to $9.5 billion and its design draws inspiration from LaGuardia’s Terminal B, incorporating artwork themed around New York City. Construction commenced on September 8, 2022, with phased openings planned beginning in 2026; initially, the first 14 gates will open on the east side at the former Terminal 2 location. The existing Terminal 1 will be demolished to make way for this development. Subsequently, five gates on the west side are expected to open in 2028, followed by an additional four gates in 2030. There is also a proposal for a west-side expansion adding four more gates, including an extra A380-capable gate to manage increased traffic.
Expanded Terminal 4
On February 11, 2020, Cuomo, the Port Authority, and Delta Air Lines revealed a $3.8 billion plan to expand Terminal 4 by adding sixteen domestic and regional gates on its 'A' concourse side as a replacement for Terminal 2. The main headhouse was enlarged to support greater passenger capacity with an initial launch targeted for 2022. A scaled-back version was completed in 2023 facilitating the demolition of Terminal 2, Delta’s full relocation into Terminal 4, and enabling construction of the new Terminal 1. Roadway improvements associated with this expansion are anticipated to finish by 2025. Delta consolidated its operations into Terminal 4 in January 2023 and inaugurated ten new gates in Concourse A; further growth of Concourse B is projected by fall 2023.
New Terminal 6
Construction on a new Terminal 6 began in February 2023. Designed by Corgan, this terminal will include ten gates, nine of which will accommodate wide-body aircraft. Valued at approximately $4.2 billion as of 2022, the project will be delivered in multiple stages with the first phase expected to open by 2026 and full completion targeted for 2028. Terminal 6 will be linked directly to Terminal 5, while Terminal 7 is slated for demolition following completion of the initial phase. This development represents a public–private partnership between the Port Authority and JFK Millennium Partners—a consortium that includes JetBlue, RXR Realty, and Vantage Airport Group.
Former terminals
JFK originally operated ten terminals but had reduced this number to five by 2023 due to gradual closures and demolitions.
Terminal 1 (1959–1995)
The original Terminal 1 was inaugurated in November 1959 to serve Eastern Air Lines, designed by Chester L. Churchill. Eastern remained the principal occupant until its collapse in January 1991. Afterward, the terminal stood unused until its demolition in 1995. The current Terminal 1, which opened in 1998, occupies this same site.
Terminal 2 (1962–2023)
Terminal 2 opened its doors in November 1962 initially catering to Northeast Airlines, Braniff International Airways, and Northwest Orient; it was last operated by Delta Air Lines. The terminal featured eleven gates equipped with jet bridges (C60–C70) and included an airline club mezzanine but lacked U.S. Customs facilities—restricting international arrivals to passengers with U.S. Customs preclearance only. Designed by White & Mariani, it became Delta’s hub following their merger with Northeast Airlines; Pan Am shifted domestic flights there in 1986. After completion of Terminal 4, Terminal 2’s gates were designated with letter 'C' and connected via shuttle buses. Until around 2013, it accommodated most of Delta’s flights alongside Terminal 3; however, expansions at Terminal 4 between 2013 and 2015 allowed Delta to consolidate nearly all operations there. Due to reductions caused by COVID-19 schedules, Delta paused operations at Terminal 2 mid-2020 but resumed service in July 2021. The terminal permanently ceased departures on January 10, 2023, with arrivals ending January 15, followed by demolition to clear space for the new Terminal 1 construction.
Terminal 3 (1960–2013)
Terminal 3, famously referred to as the Worldport, commenced operations on May 24, 1960, primarily serving Pan American World Airways. The facility underwent expansion following the debut of the Boeing 747 in 1971. After Pan Am's shutdown in 1991, Delta Air Lines assumed ownership and remained its exclusive occupant until the terminal's closure on May 23, 2013. This terminal was linked to Terminal 2 for domestic flight connections and housed 16 gates equipped with Jetways, along with two remote gates and a helipad.
In 2013, a $1.2 billion expansion of Terminal 4 led Delta to transfer all Terminal 3 activities there. The terminal's final flight was Delta Flight 268 departing to Tel Aviv on May 23, 2013, exactly fifty-three years after it first opened. Demolition was completed by summer 2014. Prior to demolition, the area served as a parking zone for aircraft before being redeveloped for the new Terminal 1.
The dismantling of the Worldport attracted widespread global media coverage, accompanied by online campaigns urging preservation of its distinctive 'flying saucer' architectural style.
International Arrivals Building
The International Arrivals Building (IAB), designed by SOM, opened its doors in December 1957 and was eventually replaced by the modern Terminal 4 in 2001.
TWA Flight Center
The TWA Flight Center began service in 1962 but closed in 2001 after its main occupant, Trans World Airlines, ceased operations due to capacity constraints. Renowned architect Eero Saarinen designed the terminal, with later additions by Roche-Dinkeloo in the 1970s. In recognition of its architectural importance, it was declared a New York City designated landmark in 1994, safeguarding it from demolition.
Following closure, the building remained vacant until integrated into JetBlue's Terminal 5 complex. It was later repurposed into the Jet Age-inspired TWA Hotel, which opened in 2019, capitalizing on the site's historic and design legacy to establish a distinctive hospitality venue at JFK Airport.
Terminal 6 (1969–2011)
Originally called the Sundrome, Terminal 6 opened on November 30, 1969, serving National Airlines until its acquisition by Pan American World Airways in 1980. Designed by architect I.M. Pei, it featured fourteen gates.
Trans World Airlines expanded into this terminal, renaming it the TWA Terminal Annex or TWA Domestic Terminal, and linked it directly to the TWA Flight Center. As TWA reduced its operations, other carriers such as United Airlines (operating transcontinental flights to SFO and LAX), ATA Airlines, a revived version of Pan Am II, Carnival Air Lines, Vanguard Airlines, and America West Airlines utilized Terminal 6.
JetBlue commenced service at Terminal 6 in 2000 and introduced a temporary structure in 2006 that increased capacity by seven additional gates. JetBlue remained the sole occupant until relocating to Terminal 5 on October 22, 2008. The terminal was demolished in 2011. The location now partially accommodates an international arrivals annex connected to Terminal 5 and serves as aircraft parking for JetBlue. Plans are underway for a new Terminal 6 annex adjoining Terminal 5, anticipated to open by 2027.
Terminal 8 (1960–2008)
Originally inaugurated in February 1960, Terminal 8 was distinguished by having the largest stained-glass front of its era. It primarily accommodated American Airlines along with other Oneworld alliance carriers that did not operate from Terminal 7. This terminal, together with Terminal 9, was dismantled in 2008 to make way for the new Terminal 8 facility.
Terminal 9 (1959–2008)
Terminal 9 began service in October 1959, initially hosting United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. In 1972, after Delta acquired Northeast Airlines, Braniff International Airways took over Terminal 9 following a terminal exchange with Delta. Braniff remained until its shutdown in May 1982. United Airlines operated there until it moved to British Airways' Terminal 7 in 1991, while Northwest Airlines also utilized the terminal from 1986 to 1991. Later on, Terminal 9 was used for American Airlines' domestic operations and American Eagle flights until it was demolished alongside the original Terminal 8 in 2008 and replaced by the current Terminal 8.
Tower Air terminal
Distinct from JFK’s main terminals, the Tower Air terminal was situated outside the Central Terminals complex in Building 213 within Cargo Area A. Initially serving Pan Am prior to the expansion of the Worldport (later designated as Terminal 3), it subsequently became the base for Tower Air and the TWA shuttle until TWA was absorbed by American Airlines in 2001. Since 2000, Building 213 has remained unused.
Runways and taxiways
Covering an area of approximately 5,200 acres (21 km²), the airport features more than 25 miles of paved taxiways. These taxiways generally measure 75 feet in width, flanked by heavy-duty shoulders of 25 feet and erosion control pavement on both sides, primarily constructed with a thickness of 15 to 18 inches of asphalt concrete. Aircraft movement is directed via markings, signage, and embedded lighting systems such as runway status lights. JFK operates four runways arranged as two parallel pairs.
| Number | Length | Width | ILS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13R/31L | 14,511 feet (4,423 m) | 200 feet (61 m) | Cat. I (31L) | Ranking as North America’s third-longest commercial runway and located next to Terminal 1, it managed roughly half of JFK’s scheduled departures and served as a contingency runway for Space Shuttle missions. Closed for reconstruction lasting four months in 2010, it was expanded from 150 to 200 feet wide with a concrete foundation and reopened on June 29, 2010. |
| 13L/31R | 10,000 feet (3,048 m) | 200 feet (61 m) | Cat. II (13L); Cat. I (31R) | Positioned adjacent to Terminals 5 and 7, this runway is equipped with ILS and ALS systems at both ends. Runway 13L includes additional visual aids such as a Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) and Lead-In Lighting System known as the "Canarsie approach." It underwent modernization for nearly eight months in 2019—replacing asphalt with concrete and widening from 150 to 200 feet—and reopened on November 16, 2019. |
| 4R/22L | 8,400 feet (2,560 m) | 200 feet (61 m) | Cat. III (both directions) | This runway is fitted with Approach Lighting Systems and touchdown zone lighting. It also features North America’s first Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS), installed in 1996 to safely halt aircraft that overrun the runway. |
| 4L/22R | 12,079 feet (3,682 m) | 200 feet (61 m) | Cat. I (both directions) | Located near Terminals 4 and 5, it permits instrument landings with visibility down to three-quarters of a mile and takeoffs at one-eighth mile visibility. The runway was closed for nearly four months in 2015 for modernization—replacing asphalt with concrete and widening from 150 to 200 feet—and reopened on September 28, 2015. |
The air traffic control tower, crafted by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners and situated on the ramp side of Terminal 4, commenced full FAA operations in October 1994. Positioned atop the tower is an Airport Surface Detection Equipment (ASDE) radar system. Upon completion, at , it held the distinction of being the tallest control tower worldwide, though it has since been eclipsed by structures such as those at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport () and KLIA2 in Malaysia ().
A VOR-DME station with the identifier JFK is located on airport grounds between runways 4R/22L and 4L/22R.
Physical plant
Power for JFK is supplied by the Kennedy International Airport Power Plant, which is owned and operated by Calpine Corporation. This cogeneration facility, fueled by natural gas, employs two General Electric LM6000 gas turbines to produce 110 megawatts of electricity. The generated power is purchased by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for airport use, with surplus energy sold to the New York Independent System Operator. Designed by RMJM, the plant received authorization in 1990 and began commercial operations in February 1995.
Heating and cooling services for JFK’s terminals are provided through a Central Heating and Refrigeration Plant (CHRP) co-located on site, featuring a Thermal Distribution System (TDS) that started service in August 1994. Waste heat from the power plant fuels two heat recovery steam generators and a 25-megawatt steam turbine; these operate chillers delivering 28,000 tons of refrigeration or heat exchangers producing 225 million Btu per hour.
Aviation ground service
The airport’s aircraft servicing infrastructure includes seven hangars, an engine overhaul facility, a fuel storage site for aircraft, and a truck garage. Fixed-base operation (FBO) services catering to general aviation flights are exclusively managed by Modern Aviation, which operates the airport’s only helipad.
Other facilities
JFK Airport encompasses a wide array of administrative offices, government buildings, and air cargo support centers. In 2002, the New York metropolitan area was responsible for 18 percent of U.S. import air cargo volume and more than 24 percent of total air cargo throughput. At that time, JFK offered 4.5 million ft2 (418,064 m2) of warehouse capacity, with additional space under development.
ABM Industries | 145 ||Active||Ground service||Sheltair rowspan="2"|151||rowspan="2"|Active||rowspan="2"|Cargo||Worldwide Freight Services,Swissport 178||Template:Unknown||Template:Unknown||Former headquarters of Tower Air 208||Active||Ground service||Aerosnow 213||Inactive||Passenger terminal|| 254||Active||Public safety||PAPD|| 255||Active||Public safety||PAPD 269||Active||Public safety||PAPD||
| Building # | Status | Use | Current tenant(s) | Additional information | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Active | Cargo | FedEx Express | ||
| 9 | Active | Cargo | Korean Air Cargo | Opened in 2001 on a 188,000 sq ft (17,500 m2) site accommodating three 747 aircraft; first JFK facility equipped with a computerized automated storage and retrieval system. | |
| 14 | Active | Admin. | Port Authority | ||
| JFK Medport | |||||
| 15 | Active | Ground service | Snowlift | ||
| 17 | Inactive | Hangar | Previously served as hangar and office for Tower Air; later used to store artifacts from the September 11 attacks distributed to memorials. | ||
| 23 | Active | Cargo | Lufthansa Cargo, Qantas Freight, Swissport USA, CAL Cargo Air Lines | Developed on 'Tract 8/9A' site (434,000 square feet (40,300 m2)), capable of handling four Boeing 747s; earlier tenants included Alliance Airlines. | |
| 66 | Active | Cargo | Nippon Cargo Airlines | ||
| 77 | Active | Mixed | U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Alliance Ground International | ||
| 81 | Active | Hangar | JetBlue | Maintenance facility covering 140,000 square feet (13,000 m2) with 70,000 square feet (6,500 m2) dedicated hangar space; opened in 2005 at a cost of $45 million. | |
| 81A | |||||
| 81B | |||||
| 86 | Active | Cargo | MSN Air Service | ||
| 89 | Active | Cargo | DHL Global Forwarding | ||
| 139 | Active | Ground service | LSG Sky Chefs | ||
| 141 | Active | Mixed | Aviation High School1 |
Other occupants have included Servisair, the Port Authority Police Department, and North American Airlines. |
|
| Became JFK’s first privately operated FBO in May 2012; formerly managed by PANYNJ. | |||||
| Previously a 400,000 minutes (24,000,000 s) Pan Am facility | |||||
| Former terminal used by Tower Air | |||||
| Features an ARFF training center with two propane-powered computer-controlled aircraft fire simulators. |
Passengers have access to three chapels on site, including Our Lady of the Skies Chapel, catering to diverse religious needs.
In January 2017, JFK introduced the Ark at JFK Airport—a $65 million upscale terminal dedicated to pets in transit—promoted as the only such luxury facility in the U.S. at that time. However, in January 2018, Ark’s owner filed a lawsuit against the Port Authority alleging violation of exclusivity rights concerning inspection of all inbound international animals. The suit claimed substantial operational losses due to many animals being diverted to a USDA facility located in Newburgh.
Airport accommodations
Located next to JFK Airport are multiple lodging options, such as the Courtyard by Marriott and the Crowne Plaza. The Ramada Plaza JFK Hotel (Building 144), formerly the sole hotel situated directly on JFK premises, was once part of Forte Hotels and earlier operated as the Travelodge New York JFK. It earned the moniker "Heartbreak Hotel" for accommodating families of air crash victims during the 1990s and 2000s. In 2009, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) shut down this hotel, citing reduced air traffic and high renovation costs, with anticipated monthly savings of $1 million. The closure, effective December 1, 2009, led to nearly 200 employees losing their jobs.
Governor Andrew Cuomo revealed on July 27, 2015, intentions to transform the TWA Flight Center into the TWA Hotel, a facility comprising 505 rooms along with 40,000 square feet dedicated to conferences and events. This $265 million initiative features a 10,000-square-foot observation deck equipped with an infinity pool. Construction began on December 15, 2016, and the hotel officially opened its doors on May 15, 2019.
Passenger
{{Airport destination list | 3rdcoltitle = | 3rdcolunsortable=yes
| Aer Lingus | Dublin, Manchester (UK), Shannon |
| Aeroméxico | Mexico City
Seasonal: Monterrey |
| Air Canada Express | Montréal–Trudeau, Toronto–Pearson |
| Air China | Beijing–Capital |
| Air Europa | Madrid |
| Air France | Paris–Charles de Gaulle |
| Air India | Delhi, Mumbai |
| Air New Zealand | Auckland |
| Air Serbia | Belgrade |
| Alaska Airlines | Portland (OR), San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/Tacoma
Seasonal: Anchorage, Palm Springs, Puerto Vallarta |
| All Nippon Airways | Tokyo–Haneda |
| American Airlines | Broad network covering major hubs and international cities including Antigua, Austin, Barbados, Bermuda, Buenos Aires, Cancún, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Delhi, Georgetown, Las Vegas, London Heathrow, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico City, Miami, Milan Malpensa, Montego Bay, Orange County, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Phoenix Sky Harbor, Punta Cana, St. Thomas, San Francisco, São Paulo Guarulhos, Tel Aviv (currently suspended), Tokyo Haneda.
Seasonal: Athens, Barcelona, Eagle/Vail, Liberia (CR), Providenciales, Rio de Janeiro Galeão, Rome Fiumicino, St. Kitts, St. Lucia Hewanorra, St. Maarten, St. Vincent Argyle. |
| American Eagle | Regional destinations across US and Canada including Boston, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus-Glenn, Indianapolis, Nashville, Norfolk, Pittsburgh, Raleigh/Durham, Toronto Pearson, Washington National |
| Arkia | Tel Aviv |
| Asiana Airlines | Seoul–Incheon |
| Austrian Airlines | Vienna |
| Avianca | Main Colombian cities Bogotá and Medellín; seasonal flights to Cali, Cartagena and Pereira |
| Avianca Costa Rica | San José; seasonal service to San Pedro Sula |
| Avianca Ecuador | Guayaquil and Quito |
| Avianca El Salvador | Guatemala City and San Salvador |
| Azores Airlines | Ponta Delgada; seasonal service to Terceira |
| British Airways | London Heathrow; seasonal flights to London Gatwick |
| Brussels Airlines | Brussels |
| Cape Air | Adirondack Regional; seasonal routes to Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket |
| Caribbean Airlines | Georgetown Cheddi Jagan; Kingston Norman Manley; Port of Spain Piarco; St. Vincent Argyle; Tobago |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong International Airport |
| Cayman Airways | Grand Cayman |
| China Airlines | Taipei Taoyuan; Shanghai Pudong; Guangzhou Baiyun |
| Condor | Frankfurt |
| Copa Airlines | Panama City Tocumen |
| Delta Air Lines | Extensive destinations including Accra; Amsterdam Schiphol; Aruba; Athens;[1]; Bermuda;[2]; Cancún;[3]; Dallas/Fort Worth;[4]; Detroit;[5]; Fort Lauderdale;[6]; Honolulu;[7]; Las Vegas;[8]; London Heathrow;[9]; Madrid;[10]; Miami;[11]; Minneapolis/St. Paul;[12]; Nassau;[13]; Orlando;[14]; Phoenix Sky Harbor;[15]; Punta Cana;[16]; St. Maarten;[17]; San Antonio;[18]; San Francisco;[19]; São Paulo Guarulhos;[20]; Tampa;[21]; West Palm Beach; Zürich.
Seasonal: Antigua,[22], Berlin (starting Dec 2025), Brussels (starting July 2025), Buenos Aires Ezeiza (starting July 2025), Catania (from Sept 2024), Copenhagen (starting July 2025), Eagle/Vail (Dec 2025), Edinburgh (starting July 2025), Geneva (July 2025), Grand Cayman (Dec 2025), Kingston Norman Manley (July 2025), Lagos (resumed April 2024), London Gatwick (July 2025), Naples (July 2025), Nice (pending March 2025), Palm Springs (Dec 2024), Prague (resumed May 2025), Providenciales (July 2025), Reykjavík Keflavík (July 2025), Rio de Janeiro Galeão (July 2025), St. Kitts,[23], San José del Cabo (July 2025), Shannon (July 2025), Stockholm Arlanda (July 2025) and Venice Marco Polo (July 2025).|
| Delta Connection | Regional airports in the US including Bangor; Boston Logan; Buffalo Niagara; Burlington VT; Charleston SC; Charlotte; seasonal Martha's Vineyard and other destinations beginning late 2025.|
| Egyptair | Cairo International Airport |
| El Al | Tel Aviv Ben Gurion |
| Emirates | Dubai International and Milan Malpensa airports |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Abidjan and Addis Ababa Bole; expanding New York routes from June 2023|
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi Zayed International |
| EVA Air | Taipei Taoyuan |
| Finnair | Helsinki Airport |
| Flair Airlines | Seasonal flights to Toronto Pearson|
| Frontier Airlines | Domestic US hubs including Atlanta,[24] Dallas/Fort Worth,[25] Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami Orlando San Juan Tampa|
| Gulf Air | Bahrain; operations resume October 1st 2025|
| Hawaiian Airlines | Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye Intl.|
| HiSky | Bucharest Otopeni; launching first US route to New York JFK late 2023|
| Iberia | Madrid Barajas|
| Icelandair | Reykjavík Keflavík|
| ITA Airways | Rome Fiumicino|
| Japan Airlines | Tokyo Haneda|
| JetBlue | Wide-ranging network including Aguadilla Puerto Rico; Amsterdam Schiphol; Antigua; Aruba; Atlanta; Barbados; Belize City; Bonaire;
Boston; Buffalo; Cancún; Cartagena; Charleston SC; Chicago O'Hare; Curaçao; Denver; Detroit;
Fort Lauderdale; Fort Myers; Georgetown Cheddi Jagan; Grand Cayman; Grenada; Guatemala City;
Guayaquil; Hartford Bradley Intl.; Jacksonville FL; Kingston Norman Manley;
Las Vegas; Liberia CR; London Heathrow; Los Angeles; Montego Bay;
Nashville; Nassau; New Orleans; Orlando;
Paris Charles de Gaulle; Phoenix Sky Harbor;
Pittsburgh;
Port-au-Prince suspended;
Port of Spain;
Providence;
Providenciales;
Puerto Plata;
Punta Cana;
Raleigh/Durham;
Rochester NY;
St. Kitts;
St. Lucia Hewanorra;
St. Maarten;
St. Vincent Argyle;
Salt Lake City;
San Diego;
San Francisco;
San José CR;
San José del Cabo;
San Juan Puerto Rico;
San Pedro Sula;
Santiago DR;
Santo Domingo Las Américas;
Sarasota;
Savannah/Hilton Head;
Syracuse NY;
Tampa;
Vancouver BC;
Washington National;
West Palm Beach.
Seasonal: Albuquerque NM; Bermuda; Bozeman MT; Burbank CA; Dublin Ireland; Edinburgh Scotland; Hyannis MA; Manchester NH ending Sept 3rd 2025; Martha's Vineyard MA; Nantucket MA; Ontario CA; Ponce PR; Portland ME; Reno/Tahoe NV; Sacramento CA ; Seattle/Tacoma WA ; Tulum Mexico transitioning to seasonal only service.|
| Kenya Airways | Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta|
| KLM | Amsterdam Schiphol|
| Korean Air | Seoul Incheon|
| Kuwait Airways | Kuwait City|
| LATAM Brasil | São Paulo Guarulhos|
| LATAM Chile | Santiago de Chile|
| | LATAM Ecuador | Guayaquil resuming December 1st 2025|
| | LATAM Peru |Lima
|}
Cargo
JFK stands as the third-largest U.S. freight gateway by shipment value, trailing only the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of New York and New Jersey. It holds the distinction of being the nation's leading international air cargo hub. In 2008, JFK handled nearly 21% of the total U.S. international air freight value and accounted for 9.6% of the tonnage.
Operating as a Foreign Trade Zone, JFK's air cargo complex is exempt from standard U.S. customs area rules. It functions as a critical center for transatlantic air freight, with primary trade connections to London, Brussels, and Frankfurt. Prominent export destinations include Tokyo, Seoul, and London, while significant import sources are Seoul, Hong Kong, Taipei, and London.
Around 20 cargo carriers operate at JFK, such as Air China Cargo, Atlas Air, Cathay Cargo, DHL Aviation, FedEx Express, Lufthansa Cargo, and UPS Airlines. The five leading freight carriers in 2005—American Airlines (10.9%), FedEx Express (8.8%), Lufthansa Cargo (5.2%), Korean Air Cargo (4.9%), and China Airlines (3.8%)—represented more than one-third of total revenue freight.
Cargo handling and maintenance facilities are mainly located to the north and west of JFK's central terminal zone. Major operators with established facilities include DHL, FedEx Express, Japan Airlines, Lufthansa, Nippon Cargo Airlines, and United Airlines. Korean Air Cargo notably invested $102 million in a new terminal in 2000 designed to manage up to 200,000 tons annually. In 2007, American Airlines introduced a priority parcel service center at Terminal 8 to expedite domestic shipments.
JFK is also served by several on-demand cargo charter providers, including those operated by Silk Way West Airlines.
Top destinations
| Position | Airline | Passenger Volume | Market Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delta Air Lines | 18,666,587 | 30.1% |
| 2 | JetBlue | 15,587,909 | 25.1% |
| 3 | American Airlines | 7,972,572 | 12.8% |
| 4 | British Airways | 1,304,442 | 2.1% |
| 5 | Alaska Airlines | 1,252,759 | 2.0% |
| 6 | Virgin Atlantic | 1,039,460 | 1.7% |
| 7 | Air France | 1,034,257 | 1.7% |
| 8 | Avianca | 998,609 | 1.6% |
| 9 | Emirates | 872,231 | 1.4% |
| 10 | Aer Lingus | 650,393 | 1.0% |
Airport Information Services
Travelers can access parking and airport details through highway advisory radio broadcasts on AM frequencies 1630 and 1700 in the vicinity of JFK. The Port Authority ensures uniform signage protocols across JFK and its other managed airports (LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport), applying yellow signs for airline-related services, green for ground transportation options, and black for passenger facilities.
Each terminal is equipped with "Welcome Centers" and taxi dispatch points that assist visitors with taxi services, limousine bookings, ground transit options, and hotel information.
The airport’s radio announcements and the messages onboard the AirTrain JFK system are voiced by former New York City traffic reporter Bernie Wagenblast.
Distinguished Personnel
Stephen Abraham, popularly known as Kennedy Steve, served as an air traffic controller at JFK from 1994 until his retirement in 2017. He gained recognition for his unique "informal" communication style and expertise in managing ground traffic control. Numerous recordings of his exchanges with pilots have been widely shared on social media platforms such as YouTube. In recognition of his outstanding professionalism and dedicated service to both the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) and the broader National Airspace System, Abraham was honored with the Dale Wright Award in 2017. Subsequently, in 2019 he took on the role of Airside Operations and Ramp Manager at JFK’s Terminal 1.
Representation in Media
Feature films shot at the airport include:
- Catch Me If You Can (2002) – Steven Spielberg filmed sequences inside JFK’s TWA Flight Center.
- The Terminal (2004) – Although set at JFK, principal photography occurred on a Los Angeles airport set complemented by exterior shots from Montreal and JFK.
- Ocean's 8 (2018) – Features scenes within the TWA Flight Center.
Television productions filmed on location at JFK:
- The Strain (TV series) (“Night Zero”, 2014) – The pilot episode depicts CDC agents arriving at JFK.
- The Flight Attendant (2020) – Several scenes were captured during active airport operations.
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel – Season one prominently showcases the refurbished TWA terminal now operating as the TWA Hotel.
Literature related to JFK includes:
- 58 Minutes by Walter Wager (1987) – A thriller centered around a crisis prevention scenario at JFK.
- The Metropolitan Airport: JFK International and Modern New York by Nicholas Dagen Bloom (2015) – An academic exploration of JFK’s historical development, political context, and influence on urban growth.
See also
- List of memorials to John F. Kennedy
- Christopher O. Ward
- List of tallest air traffic control towers in the United States
Further reading
- Bloom, Nicholas Dagen. The Metropolitan Airport: JFK International and Modern New York (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2015), 233 pages.
External links
- Official website of John F. Kennedy International Airport
- Aviation weather for John F. Kennedy International Airport
- ↑ Barcelona
- ↑ Boston
- ↑ Dakar
- ↑ Denver
- ↑ Dublin
- ↑ Frankfurt
- ↑ Houston Intercontinental (starting Sept 2025)
- ↑ Lisbon
- ↑ Los Angeles
- ↑ Mexico City
- ↑ Milan Malpensa
- ↑ Montego Bay
- ↑ New Orleans
- ↑ Paris Charles de Gaulle
- ↑ Portland (OR)
- ↑ Rome Fiumicino
- ↑ Salt Lake City
- ↑ San Diego
- ↑ San Juan
- ↑ Seattle/Tacoma
- ↑ Tel Aviv (resumed April 2025)
- ↑ Barbados
- ↑ St. Thomas
- ↑ Chicago O'Hare starting Oct 2025
- ↑ Denver starting Oct 2025
- Articles with short description
- Pages with broken file links
- John F. Kennedy International Airport
- 1948 establishments in New York City
- Airports established in 1948
- Airports in Queens, New York
- Foreign trade zones of the United States
- Jamaica, Queens
- Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
- Monuments and memorials to John F. Kennedy in the United States