John F. Kennedy International Airport is the largest international airport in New York City and one of the most significant aviation gateways in the world. Located in Queens about 24 km from Midtown Manhattan, it handles more international passengers than any other US airport and serves over 90 airlines flying to more than 160 destinations. A major terminal redevelopment is currently underway.
New York City is served by three commercial airports: JFK, which handles most international traffic; LaGuardia (LGA) for domestic and short-haul routes; and Newark Liberty (EWR) in New Jersey covering the wider metro area.
JFK has four operational terminals: 1, 4, 5, and 8. Terminal 4 is the largest and primary international arrivals hub, serving Delta and international carriers. Terminal 5 serves JetBlue, Terminal 8 serves American Airlines, and Terminal 1 handles a consortium of international airlines. Older terminals are being replaced under the current redevelopment.
JFK's terminals are linked by the free AirTrain JFK, which loops the campus taking 10 to 20 minutes between terminals. Allow at least 60 to 90 minutes for connections. The AirTrain also connects to the NYC subway and Long Island Rail Road at Jamaica and Howard Beach stations.
JFK has four runways in two crossing pairs. The longest (04L/22R) stretches 3,460 metres, 13L/31R measures around 3,048 metres, and the other two are approximately 2,560 metres each. All are equipped for 24-hour all-weather operations.
Indian passport holders require a valid US visa to enter the United States. India is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, so the visa must be secured before departure.
US visa processing for Indian nationals can take several months, so apply as early as possible and check interview wait times at the US Embassy website before booking.
The official name is John F. Kennedy International Airport, formerly known as Idlewild Airport.
The IATA code is JFK and the ICAO code is KJFK.
All four terminals handle domestic and international flights. Terminal 4 is the primary international arrivals hub, while Terminals 5 and 8 serve JetBlue and American Airlines respectively.
JFK is located in the Jamaica neighbourhood of Queens, New York City, approximately 24 km southeast of Midtown Manhattan.
JFK opened in July 1948 as Idlewild Airport and was renamed after President Kennedy in December 1963. It is currently undergoing a major redevelopment programme.
Yes, JFK operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
JFK is about 24 km from Midtown Manhattan. AirTrain plus subway or LIRR takes 50 to 70 minutes, while taxis and ride-hailing apps take roughly 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
Airlines at JFK include American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United Airlines, British Airways, Air India, Emirates, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, among many others.
Yes, JFK has the Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, American Airlines Admirals Club, international airline lounges, and pay-per-use options across terminals.
Domestic Flights
International Flights