For the second summer in a row, the Port Authority is cutting the fare for the JFK AirTrain in half. From June 30 through Labor Day, the cost to ride the AirTrain will be just $4.25 — down from the usual $8.50.
The move comes as JFK International Airport undergoes a massive $19 billion redevelopment. With terminals being rebuilt and roadways rerouted, traffic at the airport is a mess — and it’s only expected to get worse during the peak summer travel season. By reducing the AirTrain fare, the Port Authority hopes to encourage more travelers to ditch their cars and take public transportation instead.
Why the Discount Now?
“As we head into a busy summer construction period in our $19 billion effort to build a new JFK International with record traveler volumes, we are once again asking travelers to leave their cars at home and take public transit to the airport,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “Yes, there will be some temporary inconvenience. But it’s all part of building an airport our region can be proud of — for decades to come.”
That “temporary inconvenience” is especially visible at Terminal 7, where the main vehicle access roadway is currently being demolished. New roadways are under construction, but until they’re complete, reaching Terminal 7 by car is particularly difficult. The Port Authority has issued an alert about access disruptions affecting multiple terminals. You can monitor those updates at the official JFK construction advisory site.
Trains, Transfers & a Smarter Way to JFK
To avoid the roadway headaches, public transit is your best bet. We’ve long preferred using the AirTrain in combination with the subway or LIRR to reach JFK — it’s faster, cheaper, and less stressful. If you’re not sure how that works, here’s our detailed guide on taking the train from JFK to Manhattan (or vice versa), with tips on where to connect and what to expect.
Whether you connect at Jamaica Station (for the LIRR and the E, J, Z subway lines) or Howard Beach (for the A train), the newly discounted AirTrain fare makes that route even more appealing. The AirTrain also runs for free between terminals, so if you’re connecting flights or hopping between terminals, there’s no charge.
Even travelers getting a ride to the airport now have a better option. The Port Authority has opened a drop-off and pick-up lot at the AirTrain JFK Lefferts Blvd station. From there, it’s just a free, 8-minute AirTrain ride to the terminals, helping you avoid construction-related traffic entirely.
Final Thought
Between the construction chaos and high summer traffic, getting to JFK by car isn’t just frustrating; it could cause you to miss your flight. The $4.25 AirTrain fare is more than just a discount — it’s a smart alternative. If you’re traveling this summer, especially to or from Terminal 7, do yourself a favor and take the train.
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