JFK Terminal Guide
The definitive guide to all 6 JFK Airport terminals. Find out which terminal your airline uses, what to eat, where the lounges are, how to connect between terminals, and exactly where to meet your car service driver.
JFK Airport Terminals at a Glance
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has 6 numbered terminals, though only 4 are fully operational. JFK is the busiest international air gateway to the United States, handling approximately 62 million passengers annually. The airport is located in Queens, New York, approximately 15 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan.
The active terminals are: Terminal 1 (new international terminal — Air France, Lufthansa, JAL, Korean Air, Turkish Airlines), Terminal 4 (Delta international, Emirates, Singapore Airlines), Terminal 5 (JetBlue hub), and Terminal 8 (American Airlines hub, British Airways). Terminal 2 is closed (demolished) and Terminal 7 has limited operations pending replacement.
All terminals are connected by the free AirTrain monorail. Car service from JFK starts at $95 (sedan to Queens) and $165 to Manhattan. For terminal-specific pickup or any questions, call (347) 321-9929.
Quick Reference: Terminal → Airlines
| Terminal | Status | Major Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | NEW | Air France, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines |
| Terminal 2 | CLOSED | Demolished — former Delta domestic |
| Terminal 4 | OPEN | Delta, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, El Al |
| Terminal 5 | OPEN | JetBlue (hub — all JetBlue flights) |
| Terminal 7 | LIMITED | Limited operations — being replaced |
| Terminal 8 | OPEN | American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, Qantas |
Note: There is no Terminal 3 or Terminal 6 at JFK. Both were demolished years ago. Always check your boarding pass or airline app to confirm your terminal before heading to the airport.
Terminal 1 (NEW — Opened 2023)
The New Terminal 1 (NTO) at JFK is the crown jewel of the airport's massive redevelopment. Opened in 2023 as part of a $9.5 billion project, Terminal 1 replaces the aging former Terminal 1 and is expanding into the footprint of the demolished Terminal 2. When fully complete, it will feature 23 gates and world-class amenities.
Terminal 1 primarily serves international carriers and features soaring ceilings, natural light, modern gate areas, premium dining, expansive duty-free shopping, and state-of-the-art passenger facilities. The terminal was designed to set a new standard for airport experiences in the United States.
Terminal 2 (CLOSED — Demolished)
Terminal 2 is permanently closed and demolished. It formerly served Delta Air Lines domestic flights. The Terminal 2 site is now being used for the expansion of the New Terminal 1. All former Terminal 2 operations have been relocated to Terminal 4 (Delta) and other terminals.
If you have an older booking or reference that mentions Terminal 2, check your airline's current terminal assignment. Delta flights now operate from Terminal 4. The AirTrain no longer stops at Terminal 2.
Terminal 4 (Major International Terminal)
Terminal 4 is JFK's busiest and most important international terminal. Operated by JFKIAT, it handles approximately 21 million passengers annually and serves over 30 airlines. Terminal 4 is the primary terminal for Delta Air Lines (both international and domestic flights), plus premium international carriers like Emirates, Singapore Airlines, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad Airways, and El Al.
Terminal 4 features an extensive food court and dining district, duty-free shopping, and several premium lounges. It handles both international arrivals (with customs and immigration) and domestic flights. The terminal underwent significant renovations and expansions and is considered one of the best terminals at JFK.
Terminal 5 (JetBlue Hub)
Terminal 5 is JetBlue's hub at JFK and serves all JetBlue flights — domestic routes across the US plus Caribbean and Latin American destinations. T5 is known for its passenger-friendly layout, excellent food court, and its unique connection to the iconic TWA Hotel, the restored 1962 TWA Flight Center designed by architect Eero Saarinen.
The terminal features a lively food court with both quick-service and sit-down dining, a marketplace for shopping, free WiFi, and plenty of charging stations. JetBlue's customer service counters are well-staffed. The direct walkway to the TWA Hotel makes T5 unique — even non-hotel guests can visit the retro cocktail lounge and restaurant.
Terminal 7 (Limited Operations — Being Replaced)
Terminal 7 is scheduled for demolition as part of JFK's ongoing redevelopment. The terminal previously served as the British Airways hub and hosted other international carriers, but operations have been winding down. British Airways has moved to Terminal 8 alongside its oneworld partner American Airlines.
Terminal 7 currently has limited operations with reduced airlines and services. If your flight departs from Terminal 7, expect fewer dining and shopping options compared to other terminals. Check your airline for the most current terminal assignment, as remaining airlines may be relocated to other terminals at any time.
Terminal 8 (American Airlines Hub)
Terminal 8 is the American Airlines hub at JFK, handling all AA domestic and international flights. It also serves American's oneworld alliance partners: British Airways, Iberia, and Qantas. The terminal underwent a significant renovation that added new lounges, improved gate areas, expanded dining, and a modernized check-in hall.
Terminal 8 features the American Airlines Flagship Lounge (for premium cabin passengers), multiple Admirals Club locations, and the British Airways Galleries Lounge. Dining options include a mix of sit-down restaurants and quick-service outlets. The terminal handles both domestic and international flights with full customs and immigration facilities.
Getting Between JFK Terminals
AirTrain JFK — Free Between Terminals
The AirTrain JFK is a free monorail system that connects all active terminals at JFK Airport. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with trains arriving every 4-8 minutes. The complete loop around the airport takes approximately 10 minutes.
Riding the AirTrain between terminals is completely free. You only pay a fare ($8.25) when exiting to the subway (Howard Beach station, A train) or LIRR (Jamaica station). Simply board the AirTrain at your terminal and ride to your destination terminal — no ticket needed for inter-terminal travel.
Important: If you need to change terminals at JFK, you will need to exit security and re-clear security at the new terminal. Plan extra time for this — at least 30-45 minutes including AirTrain travel and security screening. Some terminals have post-security walkway connections for specific airlines; check with airport staff for your specific situation.
Where to Meet Your Car Service Driver
Every terminal at JFK has a slightly different pickup procedure. Here's exactly where your Black Car NYC driver will meet you at each terminal.
Terminal 1
Exit through customs and follow signs to the welcome/meeters area. Your driver will be waiting with a name sign just outside the customs exit doors. For domestic connections arriving at T1, follow signs to Ground Transportation on the Arrivals level.
Terminal 4
International arrivals: exit the customs hall and look for your driver with a name sign in the meeters area. Domestic arrivals: collect baggage and proceed to the Ground Transportation exit on the Arrivals level. Your driver will be waiting at the outer curb or just inside the exit doors.
Terminal 5
Exit the baggage claim area and proceed to the Ground Transportation area on the lower level. Follow signs for "Car Service / Limousine." Your driver will be waiting with a name sign near the Ground Transportation exit. The TWA Hotel walkway is on the upper level — don't go that way for pickup.
Terminal 7
Exit baggage claim and follow signs to Ground Transportation. Your driver will meet you at the Arrivals level curb with a name sign. Due to limited terminal operations, pickup areas may vary — your driver will text you exact instructions upon arrival.
Terminal 8
Exit the baggage claim area and proceed through the automatic doors to the outer curb on the Arrivals level. Your driver will be waiting with a name sign. For international arrivals clearing customs, your driver will be positioned near the customs exit area.
Your driver tracks your flight in real time. If your flight is delayed, early, or diverted, your driver adjusts automatically. You'll receive a text message with your driver's name, car details, and phone number before landing. 60 minutes of free wait time is included — no rush to collect your bags and clear customs. Call (347) 321-9929 for any pickup questions.
Transportation from JFK Airport
JFK Airport is 15 miles from Midtown Manhattan. Here's a comparison of every transportation option with current 2026 pricing and travel times.
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Service | $165 flat (sedan) | 45-75 min | Comfort, reliability, luggage |
| Yellow Taxi | $70 flat + tolls + tip | 45-75 min | Flat rate convenience |
| Uber / Lyft | $50-100+ (surge varies) | 45-80 min | App convenience, off-peak |
| AirTrain + LIRR | $17.75 | 45-60 min | Penn Station area, speed |
| AirTrain + Subway | $10.75 | 60-90 min | Budget, any destination |
Pro tip: JFK is the only NYC airport with a flat taxi rate to Manhattan ($70), making taxis a reasonable option. However, you still pay tolls ($6.55-$10.17) and a 15-20% tip, bringing the total to $90-100. Car service at $165 includes everything — tolls, tip, flight tracking, and terminal meet & greet — with no waiting in the taxi line.
JFK Car Service Pricing by Destination
Flat-rate car service pricing from JFK Airport. All prices include tolls, gratuity, flight tracking, meet & greet at your terminal, and 60 minutes free wait time. No hidden fees.
| Destination | Sedan | SUV | Est. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | $165 | $215 | 45-75 min |
| Brooklyn | $135 | $175 | 30-55 min |
| Queens | $95 | $135 | 15-35 min |
| Long Island | $145 | $185 | 25-50 min |
Terminal Food & Lounges
Each JFK terminal has different dining and lounge options. Here's a quick summary to help you plan your pre-flight experience.
Terminal 1 — Premium International Dining
The new Terminal 1 features curated dining options befitting a flagship international terminal. Expect premium restaurants, craft cocktail bars, grab-and-go options, and extensive duty-free shopping. Airline lounges include Air France, Lufthansa, and Korean Air facilities.
Terminal 4 — Best Food Selection
Terminal 4 has the widest dining selection at JFK with its Dining District. Highlights include Shake Shack, Deep Blue Sushi, Piquillo (Spanish cuisine), Tigin Irish Pub, Urban Crave, and numerous quick-service options. Lounges include Delta Sky Club, Emirates Lounge, Centurion Lounge (Amex), and Singapore SilverKris Lounge.
Terminal 5 — JetBlue's T5 Food Court + TWA Hotel
Terminal 5 has a lively food court with options like 5iveSteak, Artichoke Pizza, Baked by Melissa, and various quick-service restaurants. The standout feature is the walkway to the TWA Hotel where you can enjoy retro cocktail lounges and the Sunken Lounge bar — accessible even without a hotel reservation.
Terminal 7 — Limited Options
Terminal 7 has reduced dining and lounge facilities due to its limited operations and upcoming closure. If departing from Terminal 7, consider eating before arriving at the airport or visiting another terminal's restaurants before going through security.
Terminal 8 — American Airlines Experience
Terminal 8 features a mix of sit-down and quick-service dining with recent renovation improvements. Premium passengers can access the American Airlines Flagship Lounge (first/business class on premium routes), Admirals Club, or the British Airways Galleries Lounge.
JFK Terminal Travel Tips
Verify Your Terminal
Airlines occasionally change terminals. Always check your boarding pass or airline app before departing. Tell your car service driver the correct terminal number.
Allow Extra Time
JFK is a large airport. Arrive 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3+ hours before international. Terminal 4 and Terminal 8 are especially busy during morning peaks.
AirTrain is Free Between Terminals
You don't need a ticket or payment to ride the AirTrain between terminals. Just board and ride. Payment is only required when exiting to the subway or LIRR.
Re-Security for Terminal Changes
Switching terminals requires exiting security and going through TSA screening again. Add 30-45 minutes to your connection time for this.
Flat Taxi Rate to Manhattan
JFK is the only NYC airport with a flat $70 taxi rate to Manhattan. But remember: tolls ($6.55-$10.17) and tip (15-20%) bring the real total to $90-100.
Rush Hour Impacts Travel Time
JFK to Manhattan takes 45 minutes off-peak but can be 75-90+ minutes during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). Car service pricing stays the same regardless of traffic.
Cell Phone Lot Available
Free parking for people picking up arrivals. Located off the Van Wyck Expressway. Monitor flight status and drive to the terminal when the passenger lands.
Free WiFi Throughout
All JFK terminals offer free WiFi. Connect to "_Free JFK WiFi" network. Speed is adequate for email and browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions About JFK Terminals
How many terminals does JFK Airport have?
JFK Airport has 6 numbered terminals (1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8), but only 4 are fully operational. Terminal 1 is the brand-new international terminal opened in 2023. Terminal 2 is closed and demolished. Terminal 4 is the major international terminal (Delta international, Emirates). Terminal 5 is the JetBlue hub. Terminal 7 has limited operations and is scheduled for replacement. Terminal 8 is the American Airlines hub. There is no Terminal 3 or Terminal 6 — they were demolished years ago.
Which terminal is Delta at JFK?
Delta Air Lines operates from Terminal 4 at JFK Airport. Terminal 4 handles all Delta international flights and most Delta domestic flights. Delta Sky Club lounges are available in Terminal 4. Previously, Delta also used Terminal 2 for some domestic flights, but Terminal 2 has been closed and demolished. All Delta operations at JFK are now consolidated in Terminal 4.
Which terminal is JetBlue at JFK?
JetBlue operates exclusively from Terminal 5 (T5) at JFK Airport. Terminal 5 is JetBlue's hub and serves all JetBlue domestic, Caribbean, and Latin American flights. T5 is known for its food court, marketplace shopping, and direct connection to the TWA Hotel (the iconic former TWA Flight Center building). JetBlue flights from T5 cover destinations across the US, Caribbean, and Central/South America.
Which terminal is American Airlines at JFK?
American Airlines operates from Terminal 8 at JFK Airport. Terminal 8 is American's hub and handles all AA domestic and international flights. British Airways, Iberia, and Qantas also operate from Terminal 8 as American's oneworld alliance partners. The terminal was recently renovated with improved gate areas, new lounges (Admirals Club, Flagship Lounge), and updated dining options.
Which terminal is British Airways at JFK?
British Airways operates from Terminal 8 at JFK Airport, alongside American Airlines (its oneworld alliance partner). This includes all BA flights to London Heathrow and other UK destinations. British Airways passengers can access the British Airways Galleries Lounge in Terminal 8, as well as the American Airlines Flagship Lounge. The terminal provides customs pre-clearance for flights to the UK.
Which terminal is Emirates at JFK?
Emirates operates from Terminal 4 at JFK Airport. This includes Emirates flights to Dubai (DXB) and connecting destinations worldwide. Emirates passengers can access the Emirates Lounge in Terminal 4, which offers complimentary dining, beverages, and shower facilities. Terminal 4 also handles other Gulf carriers and major international airlines, making it JFK's primary international terminal.
What is the new Terminal 1 at JFK?
The New Terminal 1 (NTO) at JFK opened in 2023 as part of a $9.5 billion redevelopment project. It replaced the former Terminal 1 and is expanding into the space left by the demolished Terminal 2. When fully complete, it will have 23 gates and serve primarily international carriers including Air France, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines. The terminal features modern architecture, premium lounges, diverse dining, and state-of-the-art passenger amenities.
Is Terminal 2 at JFK still open?
No, Terminal 2 at JFK is permanently closed and has been demolished. Terminal 2 formerly served Delta domestic flights but closed as part of the New Terminal 1 expansion project. All former Terminal 2 operations have moved to other terminals. The site is being used for the continued expansion of the New Terminal 1. When navigating JFK, you can ignore Terminal 2 — it no longer exists.
How do I get between terminals at JFK?
The AirTrain JFK is a free monorail system that connects all terminals. It runs 24/7 and trains arrive every 4-8 minutes. The full loop around JFK takes about 10 minutes. Board at any terminal's AirTrain station and ride to your destination terminal. Note: if you need to switch terminals after clearing security, you will need to exit security and re-clear at the new terminal. Some terminals have post-security walkway connections — check with airport staff.
Where do I meet my car service driver at JFK?
For Black Car NYC pickups at JFK: proceed to the Arrivals level (ground floor) of your terminal and exit through the automatic doors. Your driver will be waiting near the terminal exit with a name sign. Terminal 1: exit customs and look for your driver near the welcome area. Terminal 4: exit the international arrivals hall or domestic baggage claim and head to Ground Transportation. Terminal 5: exit to the Ground Transportation area on the lower level. Terminal 8: exit baggage claim and proceed to the outer curb. Call (347) 321-9929 if you need assistance locating your driver.
What food is at JFK Terminal 4?
JFK Terminal 4 has extensive dining options. Pre-security: Shake Shack, Dunkin', and grab-and-go options. Post-security: the Dining District features a wide selection including Deep Blue Sushi, Piquillo (Spanish cuisine), Urban Crave, McDonald's, Wendy's, Tigin Irish Pub, and numerous other restaurants. Terminal 4 also has duty-free shopping, retail stores, and premium lounges including the Delta Sky Club, Emirates Lounge, and the Centurion Lounge by American Express.
What is the TWA Hotel at JFK?
The TWA Hotel is a luxury hotel located inside the iconic former TWA Flight Center at JFK, connected directly to Terminal 5 (JetBlue). Designed by architect Eero Saarinen and restored to its 1962 glory, the hotel features 512 rooms, a rooftop infinity pool and bar with runway views, multiple restaurants, a museum, and mid-century modern decor. It is the only hotel located directly inside a JFK terminal. Room rates start around $200-400/night. It is a popular spot even for non-guests to visit the retro cocktail lounges and restaurant.
How much is a car service from JFK?
Black Car NYC offers flat-rate car service from JFK Airport: $165 sedan (Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series) or $215 SUV (Cadillac Escalade) to Manhattan. Brooklyn rates start at $135 sedan / $175 SUV. Queens starts at $95 sedan / $135 SUV. All prices include tolls, gratuity, flight tracking, meet & greet at your terminal exit, and 60 minutes free wait time. No surge pricing — the same rate applies 24/7, regardless of traffic or demand.
How do I get from JFK to Manhattan?
Options from JFK to Manhattan: Car service ($165 flat rate sedan, 45-75 min), yellow taxi ($70 flat rate + tolls + tip, 45-75 min), Uber/Lyft ($50-100+ variable, 45-80 min), AirTrain + subway ($10.75, 60-90 min), or AirTrain + LIRR ($17.75, 45-60 min to Penn Station). Car service offers the most comfortable, predictable option with flight tracking and meet & greet. The JFK flat taxi rate of $70 to Manhattan is one of the best taxi deals among NYC airports.
Is there a train from JFK to Manhattan?
There is no direct train from JFK to Manhattan, but you can use the AirTrain JFK combined with the subway or LIRR. AirTrain to Jamaica Station ($8.25), then LIRR to Penn Station ($9.50) takes about 45-60 minutes total ($17.75). AirTrain to Howard Beach Station ($8.25), then A train subway ($2.90) to Manhattan takes 60-90 minutes ($10.75 total, cheapest option). The AirTrain connects all terminals to both transit hubs.
What terminal do I go to at JFK?
Your terminal depends on your airline: Terminal 1 — Air France, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines. Terminal 4 — Delta, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, El Al, Aeromexico. Terminal 5 — JetBlue. Terminal 7 — Limited operations (check your airline). Terminal 8 — American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, Qantas. Always verify your terminal on your boarding pass or airline app before departing for the airport, as terminal assignments can occasionally change.
Book JFK Airport Car Service
Your driver meets you at your terminal exit with a name sign. No searching, no waiting, no confusion. Black Car NYC offers flat-rate car service from all JFK terminals — flight tracking and meet & greet included at every terminal.
Or call (347) 321-9929 to book by phone.