If you have traveled through John F. Kennedy International Airport recently, you already know that the massive redevelopment project has turned the roadways into a bit of a maze.
To help ease the intense traffic gridlock outside the terminals during peak travel hours, the Port Authority has officially changed where arriving passengers can catch a ride home.
Since May 2, 2025, the ride app pick-up location for Terminal 5 and Terminal 7 has been completely relocated. If you are used to stepping right off the curb and into your car, you will need to adjust your usual routine.
Here is exactly what you need to know before you request your next Uber or Lyft.
Arriving passengers must take the AirTrain
If you are landing at Terminal 5 or 7 and want to use a for-hire vehicle or car service, you can no longer be picked up at the front of the terminal.
Instead, arriving passengers must take the JFK AirTrain to the AirTrain Howard Beach station to meet their driver at a designated, numbered space.
While it adds an extra step to your journey home, the JFK AirTrain is completely free within the airport boundaries. This includes all trips to the new Howard Beach Ride App and Car Services pickup lot.
To make the transition as smooth as possible for exhausted travelers, customer service representatives and baggage handlers will be on-site at the lot to assist passengers with their luggage.
Departing passengers are not affected
Don’t panic if you are rushing to catch a flight out of the city. This new transportation rule only applies to airport arrivals.
This change will not affect passengers riding to the airport for departure. You can still be dropped off directly in front of your terminal by your driver as usual.
Passengers requesting accessible pick ups
There is an important exception to this new relocation rule. ADA-accessible ride shares will remain available to customers at the front of the terminal.
If you need wheelchair assistance or extra space, you will not be forced to navigate the AirTrain with your luggage.
However, the airport highly recommends that Wheelchair Services are best arranged through your airline prior to your flight.
Doing this in advance ensures that an attendant is fully prepared to assist you from your gate directly to your ride app pick up at the terminal curb.