John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Overview
John F Kennedy International Airport, commonly known as JFK, is one of the busiest and most important airports in the United States. Located in Queens, New York City, JFK serves as a primary gateway for international and domestic flights. The airport is renowned for its extensive network, connecting millions of passengers to destinations across the globe. Opened in 1948, JFK features six passenger terminals, each offering a wide range of services and amenities. The airport is a major hub for both passenger and cargo traffic, facilitating seamless travel for business and leisure travelers alike. With its modern infrastructure and continual upgrades, JFK remains at the forefront of aviation excellence.
JFK is situated approximately 16 miles (26 km) from Midtown Manhattan, making it conveniently accessible for travelers heading to the heart of New York City. The airport is surrounded by several vibrant neighborhoods, including Jamaica, Howard Beach, and Rockaway, and is a short drive from Brooklyn and Long Island. Travelers can reach Manhattan and other city centers using various transportation options such as the AirTrain JFK, subway, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), taxis, ride-shares, and private shuttles. The local time zone is Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC -5, ensuring easy coordination for international journeys.
Air Traffic Ranking
- Europe Ranking: Not applicable (JFK is located in the United States)
- Worldwide Ranking: JFK consistently ranks among the top 20 busiest airports globally in terms of passenger traffic and international arrivals.
Top Airlines Operating at JFK
Distance to New York City Center
John F Kennedy International Airport is approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Midtown Manhattan, the central business district of New York City. The journey to the city center typically takes 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen mode of transportation.
Nearby Areas and Closest City Centers
- Jamaica, Queens (3 miles / 5 km)
- Brooklyn (10 miles / 16 km)
- Long Island City (13 miles / 21 km)
- Manhattan (16 miles / 26 km)
- Howard Beach (4 miles / 6 km)
Transportation from JFK to the City Center
- AirTrain JFK: Connects to NYC Subway (E, J, Z lines) and LIRR for direct access to Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- Subway: Accessible via AirTrain to Jamaica or Howard Beach stations.
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): From Jamaica Station to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan.
- Taxis: Flat fare to Manhattan; available at every terminal.
- Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate at JFK.
- Private Shuttles & Limousines: Pre-booked or on-demand services.
- Bus: Several bus routes connect JFK to various parts of New York City.
Terminal Information & Airlines
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Terminal 1: Lufthansa, Air France, Korean Air, and other international carriers.
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Terminal 2: Primarily Delta Air Lines (Domestic and select international flights).
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Terminal 4: Delta Air Lines (International), Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, and other international airlines.
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Terminal 5: JetBlue Airways and partner airlines.
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Terminal 7: British Airways, United Airlines, and select international carriers.
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Terminal 8: American Airlines, Iberia, and oneworld partners.
Official JFK Airport Website
For the latest information on flights, terminals, and airport services, visit the official JFK Airport website.
Air Passenger Rights at John F Kennedy International Airport
If your flight to or from John F Kennedy International Airport was delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU 261/EC 261), provided certain conditions are met. EU 261 applies to all flights departing from an airport within the European Union (EU), or arriving in the EU on an EU-based airline. For example, if you are flying from JFK to a destination in the EU with a European carrier such as British Airways, Lufthansa, or Air France, your rights are protected under this regulation.
Under EU 261, passengers may claim compensation for flight delays of more than three hours, cancellations without sufficient notice, or denied boarding due to overbooking. Compensation amounts depend on the flight distance:
- €250 per person for flights up to 1,500 km
- €400 per person for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
- €600 per person for flights over 3,500 km
To be eligible, your flight must have departed from an EU airport or arrived in the EU with an EU carrier. For flights from JFK to the EU, EU 261 applies only if you are flying with a European airline. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you have the right to request assistance such as meals, refreshments, and accommodation, depending on the length of the delay. The airline must also provide information about your rights.
Compensation claims can be made for delays caused by reasons within the airline’s control, such as technical issues or operational disruptions. Extraordinary circumstances, like severe weather or air traffic control strikes, may exempt airlines from paying compensation under EU 261.
If you experienced a long delay or cancellation on your JFK–EU flight, you may be eligible for up to €600 in compensation per passenger. Ensure you keep your boarding pass, booking confirmation, and document all communications with the airline. You have up to three years (depending on the country) to file a claim.
How Voos Can Assist with Your Compensation Claim
If your flight from John F Kennedy International Airport was delayed or cancelled, Voos can review your claim and, if eligible, pursue it with the airline on your behalf. Our service is risk-free – fees are only charged if your claim is successful. Depending on your specific case, compensation of up to €600 per person may be possible.
- Gather your flight number and booking details
- Keep your boarding pass or e-ticket
- Document communications with the airline
- Check your eligibility for compensation today
Claiming your compensation with Voos is simple and straightforward. Our team of experts will handle all the paperwork and negotiations, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for flight delays or cancellations from JFK.
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