New York Airport (JFK)

The Main Airport of the New York City

The Leading New York Airport at a Glance

John F. Kennedy International Airport, or JFK Airport, is also known as New York Airport, even though four airports serve in total the city of New York. However, JFK is considered the main and leading airport of the “big apple city”, as well as one of the busiest USA airports. What’s more, it is listed among the most important aviation hubs globally. 

Opening its door back in 1948, its initial name was New York International Airport. Still, it was most commonly known as Idlewild Airport after the Idlewild Beach Golf Course, which was completely torn down in order to make way for the new airport. Nevertheless, it received its present-day name in 1963, when the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. As a tribute to his high-profile political career, the leading airport of New York city was renamed John F. Kennedy International Airport or JFK Airport.

New York Airport is located in the southeastern area of Queens County, approximately 16 miles (26km) from Manhattan, and belongs to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. It hosts more than 90 airlines, being a major hub for American Airlines and Delta Airlines as well as the “head office” of JetBlue. Welcoming more than 62 million passengers annually, JFK Airport handles flights from all over the world. In fact, it is considered the principal air gate to the entire North American area.

JFK Airport’s Layout

New York Airport consists of 6 terminals, 131 gates, and 4 runways. Even though the terminals are only 6, terminal buildings 7 and 8 are also to be found, as T3 and T6 were demolished in the past decade. JFK airport’s arrangement resembles a huge “U” shape. However, the in-between terminal transfers are troublesome since the airport shuttles operate landside. Thus, with the exemption of transfers between T2 and T4 for Delta passengers and between T5 and T8 for American-JetBlue clients, to travel from one JFK terminal to another, New York airport passengers have to pass through security control.

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FAQs

Which city is JFK Airport in?

JFK Airport is located in New York City (actually in Queens county). In fact, it is the main airport serving NY, and that’s why it is also known as New York Airport. 

New York’s JFK Airport was originally known by what name?

When New York Airport first opened its door in 1948, it was named New York International Airport. Nevertheless, it was most commonly known as Idlewild Airport, as the airport’s construction resulted in the demolition of the Idlewild Beach Golf Course lying in the area. When President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, New York received his name as a tribute to his work and political career.

Is JFK the biggest airport?

JFK Airport isn’t the biggest airport globally. However, it is the principal aviation hub of NY, as well as one of the most important USA airports. It is the number one gateway to North America, welcoming passengers from all over the world. Thus, it is listed among the major airports at a universal level.

What are the 3 major airports in NYC?

Besides JFK Airport, two more aviation hubs serve New York City. Newark Liberty International Airport lies 12 miles (19km) from the city center and is considered the second-biggest airport in the area. On the other hand, LaGuardia Airport -11 miles (18km) from New York- mainly serves domestic flights.

What is the major airport in New York?

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK Airport) is the main airport in the area, handling both domestic and international flights. Housing more than 90 airlines and handling approximately 62 million passengers annually, it is listed among the busiest airports in the world.

Which airport should I fly out of New York?

New York JFK Airport is considered your best option. It is well connected to the city center while serving numerous destinations and hosting the vast majority of international as well as domestic airlines.

How far is it from JFK to New York City?

JFK Airport is located within a 16-mile (26km) distance from the city of New York. Thus, a ride from New York Airport to the city center lasts approximately 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, high traffic levels can raise the transfer duration even to 90 minutes!

Where is JFK Airport located?

New York Airport is located in Queens, in the Jamaica neighborhood. It is almost 16 miles (26km) away from Manhattan on its southeast side.

What are the transportation options from New York Airport?

JFK Airport is adequately connected to every area of New York City. Hence, apart from the convenient New York airport taxis, the premium JFK airport transfers, and the handy car rentals, passengers can use the subway, the commuter train, or even the bus.

Airport Name: John F. Kennedy International Airport

IATA Code: JFK

ICAO: KJFK

Location: Jamaica, Queens, New York, U.S

Time Zone:  Eastern Time Zone (UTC-05:00)

Airport Map: JFK Airport at Google Maps