Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton hinted at a reduced or even free fare for the JFK AirTrain this summer and the verdict has finally been announced. Though passengers won’t get to ride the JFK AirTrain for free, they’ll be able to ride it at half the price.
Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement that beginning July 1, the JFK AirTrain will cost $4.25—that’s half the cost of its current price! People will be able to pay the new fare at both Jamaica and Howard Beach stations. The fare reduction is in efforts to encourage people to take public transportation to the airport as JFK continues to undergo major construction with a record shattering 18 million passengers expected to travel through JFK this summer.
“With transformational construction underway at JFK, we’re taking steps to mitigate travel delays and affirm what’s always been true – there’s no better option than taking the train to the plane,” Governor Hochul said. “As we kick off a busy summer, we’re making it more affordable for travelers to utilize the AirTrain, offering New Yorkers and visitors from around the world the best-in-class travel experience they deserve.”
“In the midst of JFK’s monumental transformation, our priority remains ensuring travelers have reliable access amid peak construction,” echoes Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “By halving AirTrain JFK fares this summer, we’re incentivizing public transit in order to ease congestion during record-setting travel volumes. AirTrain JFK will be the way to go in the months ahead, and the Port Authority is making it more affordable for customers throughout the region.”
In addition to JFK’s $4.2 billion Terminal 6, other transformations include a New Terminal One, a $1.5 billion expansion of Terminal 4, a $400 million expansion of Terminal 8, and a new ground transportation center.
Looking to be among those 18 million passengers traveling through JFK this year but need some travel inspiration? Explore all of the unique escapes waiting for you, like a stay near the Eiffel Tower or a trip to Dubai.