Getting an Uber or Lyft at New York’s JFK Airport has never been particularly easy — long walks, confusing signage, and shifting pickup zones are all part of the experience. But now, for travelers arriving at Terminals 5 and 7, there are even more steps involved.
The airport had changed its ride-app pickup process as part of the massive #AWholeNewJFK construction project aimed at easing terminal congestion.
For JetBlue passengers arriving at Terminal 5 and Frontier, Air Canada, and several international airlines operating from Terminal 7, new procedures remain in place — and they’re not exactly convenient.
Rideshare Pickups Are No Longer Curbside
According to an announcement from @JFKairport, curbside pickups for ride-hailing services (like Uber and Lyft) have been eliminated at these terminals. Instead, arriving passengers will need to take an extra leg of transportation before meeting their driver.
- Terminal 5 (JetBlue):
Passengers must take the AirTrain JFK to the Howard Beach Station to access the new Ride App and Car Services pickup lot. - Terminal 7 (Alaska, Air Canada, and several foreign carriers):
Passengers must also ride the AirTrain JFK to the Howard Beach Station, which serves as the new central pickup location.
The AirTrain is free to use within the airport, including exiting at Howard Beach for rideshare pickups or long-term parking.
Accessibility and Alternative Options
The airport confirms that ADA-accessible rides will still be permitted curbside at terminal frontages, ensuring that passengers who need direct access aren’t affected by the relocation.
For everyone else, JFK suggests that for “the quickest trip and fewer traffic delays,” travelers consider public transit options like the New York City Subway or Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), both easily reachable via the AirTrain.
Why This Is Happening
The changes are part of JFK’s ongoing redevelopment program, a multi-billion-dollar effort to expand terminals, modernize roadways, and improve passenger flow. While these updates should eventually make traveling through JFK smoother, they’re causing inconveniences for anyone using rideshares.
Bottom Line
If you’re landing at JFK Terminal 5 or 7, don’t expect to order an Uber or Lyft right outside baggage claim. You’ll need to factor in time to ride the AirTrain to Howard Beach and meet your driver there.
As construction continues across the airport, it’s wise to check the latest pickup instructions before your flight, since more temporary changes are likely as projects progress.
For more details, visit the official JFK announcement page here.
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