How to Take the LIRR to JFK Airport: Step-by-Step Guide
LIRR to JFK Airport - An LIRR-AirTrain combo to JFK Airport is most convenient for visitors. Begin by boarding a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train to Jamaica Station. Trains are frequent from Penn Station, Grand Central Madison, or Atlantic Terminal. Once here at Jamaica, follow the signage toward the AirTrain JFK, an automated monorail that goes directly to all airport terminals. The AirTrain ride takes a good ten minutes and requires a separate fare. Approximately 35–50 minutes with respect to where you depart from. This option-so LIRR to JFK Airport-able would be faster than traffic, reliable, and a chance to keep an airline on time.
How to Take the LIRR to JFK Airport
Traveling from Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to JFK Airport is basically a combination of train
and AirTrain services. Here is a step guide to help you execute your navigations:
Step 1: Take the LIRR to Jamaica Station
Board any LIRR train (Babylon, Ronkonkoma, Port Jefferson, Hempstead, etc.) that stops at Jamaica Station.
Trains frequently serve Jamaica from Penn Station, Grand Central Madison, or Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn).
More frequent trains run only during rush hours from 6 to 10 AM and from 4 to 8 PM (around every 10 to 15 minutes).
Outside peak hours, as well as during weekends, there is less frequent service of approximately every 20 to 30 minutes.
Travel time to Jamaica:
From Penn Station: ~15–20 mins
From Grand Central Madison: ~20 mins
From Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn): ~15–20 mins
Fare: Varies by origin (~$7–$15 peak, ~$5–$10 off-peak). Check MTA LIRR fares.
Step 2: Transfer to the AirTrain JFK at Jamaica
On reaching Jamaica Station, follow signs for AirTrain JFK (transfer is free if using a CityTicket or a combined LIRR/AirTrain ticket).
If you do not have an AirTrain ticket with you, purchase one ($8.50) from:
MetroCard vending machines (credit and debit cards accepted).
OMNY-type contactless payments are not valid on AirTrain.
Board the AirTrain (green line) bound for JFK Airport.
Trains are scheduled around the clock and come every 5-10 minutes (there are longer gaps at night).
Step 3: Ride the AirTrain to Your JFK Terminal
The AirTrain stops at all JFK Terminals (1-8 plus Federal Circle & rental cars).
Listen for announcements or check the digital display.
Travel time: around 10 minutes from Jamaica to the terminals.
Exit at your terminal and follow the signing for check-in.
Key Tips & Notes
Total Travel Time:
From Manhattan: ~45–60 mins (LIRR + AirTrain).
From Brooklyn: ~35–50 mins.
Fare Options:
Combined LIRR + AirTrain ticket: Buy at LIRR stations ($8.50 is the AirTrain fee).
CityTicket: $5 (only during off-peak hours; includes LIRR but not AirTrain).
Luggage:
The LIRR has racks above the seats; AirTrain is just standing room.
Alternate Route:
You could also take LIRR to Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn), transfer to the A subway to Howard Beach, and then AirTrain (longer but cheaper).
Final Advice
Check the schedule of LIRR to JFK Airport on the MTA website or TrainTime app.
Allow some extra time during rush hours or bad weather.
This is the best way from Manhattan/Brooklyn during rush hours besides subway or cab. Safe trip! ✈️🚆
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