Public Transportation
AirTrain makes public transit connections fast and easy
Public transportation options
Our AirTrain stations are easily accessible via the NYC subway and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) connecting you to any of JFK's terminals on public transportation.
Common trips to and from JFK
Check out the sample routes, fares, and travel times for common trips to and from the airport. All fares include AirTrain fee of $8.75.
Paying for public transportation
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Subway - You’ll pay your fare when entering the subway. Simply tap any contactless credit or debit card, smartphone, or wearable device, or use an OMNY card. The subway fare is: $3.00, and once you’re in, you can ride as far as you’d like—you only pay each time you enter the system.
- Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad - You can buy your rail ticket at the station, from a vending machine or a ticketing desk, or you can download the TrainTime app opens in a new tab to purchase tickets on your phone.
AirTrain requires a separate fare from the subway, LIRR, and Metro-North Railroad.
Learn more about the AirTrain
The best way to get to JFK
Take the subway or LIRR, just 20 minutes from NY Penn or Grand Central Madison to the AirTrain. This is the best option, as it avoids traffic and saves time and money.
Navigate JFK with the AirTrain
The AirTrain connects passengers to terminals, airport parking lots, the hotel shuttle area, the rental car center, and public transportation.
Accessibility on public transportation
JFK offers accessible public transportation options that travel around the airport. All JFK AirTrain stations are fully accessible. MTA buses have accessibility features and many subway and LIRR stations are ADA-accessible, including the Howard Beach-JFK Airport subway station and the Jamaica LIRR station.
For more information, call 511 or (888) GO511NY (+1 (888) 465-1169), or visit the MTA’s website.
Public transportation safety tips
Ensuring your safety while using public transportation is a priority, so always be aware of your surroundings. If you see something unsafe, you can report it by finding a police officer or MTA employee, for assistance, calling 911 for an emergency, using a station help intercom or by filling out the online MTA form for non-emergencies
NYC public transportation resources
Additional resources are available for navigating public transportation, such as MTA stations, LIRR times, learning how to pay for transit and the TrainTime app for schedules.
MTA Website
NYC’s MTA subway system is a great way to get around the city and to your destination. The website provides a trip planner, accessibility resources, delay updates and more. Stay up to date with the latest from the MTA.
LIRR Website
The Long Island Rail Road is a commuter rail that connects passengers from JFK and the city to Long Island. Find more information about fares, schedules and station information by visiting their website.
TrainTime App
If you're traveling via Long Island Rail Road or Metro North commuter rail, the TrainTime is your one-stop shop for buying tickets, planning trips and checking schedules. Save time and stress by purchasing tickets in advance on your mobile device.
CityTicket
If you are traveling within New York City on the LIRR or Metro-North, you can purchase a CityTicket. A CityTicket cost $5.25 off-peak and $7.25 peak for rides on the LIRR or Metro-North. If you’re switching between the two lines, you can transfer at Grand Central with a Combo Ticket for $8.00.