Arriving in the Big Apple via Amtrak and heading straight to catch a flight at JFK? Don’t let the hustle and bustle of New York City transportation overwhelm you. Connecting from Amtrak’s convenient Midtown Manhattan location to John F. Kennedy International Airport is simpler than you might think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a smooth and stress-free transfer, covering schedules, ticket options, costs, and easy connection steps. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or navigating NYC for the first time, we’ve got you covered.
Identifying Your Amtrak Hub: Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall
The primary Amtrak station in New York City for your connection to JFK Airport is New York Penn Station (NYP). This is the closest and effectively the only Amtrak station within the city limits. You’ll find it nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, specifically bounded by 7th and 9th Avenues and between 31st and 33rd Streets. The station now operates as a unified complex with the stunning and modern Moynihan Train Hall, which is located directly across 8th Avenue in the beautifully restored historic James A. Farley Post Office Building. While these are technically two distinct physical spaces, for the purpose of your journey to JFK, they function as one interconnected transportation hub. Travelers should note that reaching their connecting transportation options will likely involve navigating within this combined station area.
Moynihan Train Hall serves as the new main hub for Amtrak in New York City, boasting fantastic, expanded facilities and a more modern experience for passengers. However, it’s important to note that during overnight hours, specifically from 1:00 AM to 5:00 AM, all Amtrak services, including baggage handling and platform access, are temporarily shifted back to the original Penn Station building. This overnight operational shift is a key piece of information for travelers with very early morning or late-night flight connections. They need to be aware that the entrance and potentially some services might be in the older section of Penn Station during these hours. Penn Station is not just an Amtrak station; it’s a major transportation nexus offering connections to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), New Jersey Transit (NJT), and numerous lines within the New York City Subway system. The consistent identification of Penn Station (and its extension, Moynihan Train Hall) as the singular Amtrak point for connecting to JFK simplifies the initial step for travelers.
Step-by-Step Connection Options:
The Most Common Route: Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and AirTrain
For many travelers, combining the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) with the AirTrain JFK is often the quickest and most straightforward way to reach the airport from Penn Station. The LIRR offers a similar commute time to driving without the stress of navigating traffic.
Transferring to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR):
Once you arrive at New York Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall via Amtrak, simply follow the clearly marked signs directing you towards the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). The main LIRR concourse is conveniently located beneath the street level of Penn Station. While Penn Station has different concourses, travelers should specifically look for “LIRR” signage to find their way.
LIRR Schedules from Penn Station to Jamaica Station:
To get to JFK via this route, you’ll need to board an LIRR train heading towards Jamaica Station. Look for trains on the Babylon, Port Jefferson, or Ronkonkoma lines, as these all make stops at Jamaica. LIRR service between Penn Station and Jamaica is frequent, with trains departing approximately 7 times per hour on average. The train journey itself is relatively short, typically taking between 20 and 24 minutes. This direct service requires no train transfers to reach Jamaica Station. Keep in mind that train schedules may be less frequent or slightly different on weekends and public holidays. For the most up-to-date and real-time schedule information, it’s highly recommended to use the official MTA TrainTime app.
Purchasing LIRR Tickets:
You have several convenient options for purchasing your LIRR ticket to Jamaica Station. You can buy them at the ticket windows or from the automated ticket vending machines located within Penn Station before you board the train. For ultimate convenience, consider using the MTA eTix app (which has now been integrated into the TrainTime app). This allows you to purchase and store your tickets directly on your smartphone. It is advisable to purchase your fare before boarding the train to save money. The cost of your LIRR ticket will depend on the time of day you are traveling. Fares are typically higher during peak hours (generally weekday mornings and evenings) and lower during off-peak hours and on weekends. If your entire trip begins and ends within New York City, you might want to look into purchasing a “CityTicket.” This special ticket can sometimes be a more economical option, especially during off-peak hours, costing $5 during off-peak and $7 during peak times. While it is possible to purchase your ticket on the train itself, be aware that there is usually an additional surcharge for doing so. It’s generally more cost-effective to buy your ticket beforehand.
AirTrain Connection at Jamaica Station:
Once your LIRR train pulls into Jamaica Station, you’ll need to make a connection to the AirTrain JFK. Follow the prominent signs within Jamaica Station that will guide you to the AirTrain platforms. The AirTrain is an automated rail system that operates 24/7 and connects Jamaica Station directly to all terminals at JFK Airport. The AirTrain ride from Jamaica Station to your specific terminal will typically take between 10 and 15 minutes. AirTrain operates around the clock, 365 days a year, with frequent service, usually running every 4 to 10 minutes during the daytime.
AirTrain JFK Fares:
To board the AirTrain when entering or exiting the system at Jamaica Station, you’ll need to pay a fare of $8.50 per person. Children under the age of 5 ride the AirTrain for free. Payment for the AirTrain can be conveniently made using various methods, including contactless credit or debit cards, smartphones or smartwatches with digital wallets enabled, or an OMNY card. If you prefer to pay with cash or are interested in purchasing discounted multi-trip options, you can buy an AirTrain MetroCard from the vending machines located at Jamaica Station. Frequent travelers might benefit from purchasing discounted fare packages such as a 10-trip pass for $26.50 or a 30-day unlimited pass for $42.50, which are exclusively valid on the AirTrain.
Clear, Sequential Instructions
- Upon arriving at New York Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall via Amtrak, follow the signs for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
- Purchase an LIRR ticket to Jamaica Station from a ticket window, vending machine, or using the TrainTime app.
- Board an LIRR train on the Babylon, Port Jefferson, or Ronkonkoma line heading towards Jamaica.
- Get off the train at Jamaica Station (the ride is approximately 20-24 minutes).
- Once at Jamaica Station, follow the signs directing you to the AirTrain JFK.
- Purchase your AirTrain ticket ($8.50) using a contactless payment method or by buying an AirTrain MetroCard.
- Board the AirTrain heading towards your specific JFK Airport terminal.
- Remember that the AirTrain is free to ride once you are within the airport, connecting between the different terminals.
- Alight at the station for your designated airline terminal.
LIRR Ticket Options and Estimated Costs (Penn Station to Jamaica)
| Ticket Type | Estimated Cost | Purchase Method |
| Peak One-Way | $10.75 – $14.50 | App, Machine, Window, Onboard (Surcharge) |
| Off-Peak One-Way | $7.75 – $10.75 | App, Machine, Window, Onboard (Surcharge) |
| CityTicket Off-Peak | $5.00 | App, Machine, Window |
| CityTicket Peak | $7.00 | App, Machine, Window |
AirTrain JFK Fare Options (Jamaica Station)
| Fare Type | Cost | Payment Methods | Validity |
| Single Ride | $8.50 | Contactless Credit/Debit/Mobile, OMNY Card, MetroCard | Single Trip |
| 10-Trip | $26.50 | AirTrain MetroCard (Purchase at Jamaica/Howard Beach) | 30 days from first use, ONLY VALID ON AIRTRAIN |
| 30-Day Unlimited | $42.50 | AirTrain MetroCard (Purchase at Jamaica/Howard Beach) | 30 days from first use, ONLY VALID ON AIRTRAIN |
The Budget-Friendly Choice: Subway and AirTrain
If saving money is your top priority, taking the New York City Subway in combination with the AirTrain JFK can be a more economical option. This is often the cheapest way to make the connection.
Taking the E Subway Line from Penn Station to Jamaica
From your Amtrak arrival at Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall, you’ll want to transfer to the E subway line. Follow the signs within Penn Station for the A, C, or E trains at the 34th Street–Penn Station station, which is located under Eighth Avenue. Board the E train heading in the direction of Jamaica Center–Parsons/Archer. The subway ride to the connection point for the AirTrain will take approximately 31 minutes. You’ll need to get off the E train at the Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport station.
Subway Schedules and Fares:
The E train runs 24 hours a day, with service typically every 4 to 20 minutes depending on the time of day and day of the week. For the most up-to-date subway schedules and any service alerts, you can check the official MTA website or use a transit app like Transit. The standard fare for a single ride on the New York City Subway is currently $2.90. You can pay your subway fare using a contactless payment method like OMNY (tapping your credit/debit card or smartphone) or with a MetroCard.
Reiteration of the AirTrain Connection
Once you arrive at the Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport subway station, follow the clearly marked signs to connect to the AirTrain JFK. The AirTrain station is located within the same complex as the subway station, at Jamaica Station. The fare and operational details for the AirTrain remain the same as described in the LIRR and AirTrain section. You’ll need to purchase an AirTrain ticket ($8.50) to proceed to the airport terminals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- After arriving at New York Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall via Amtrak, locate the subway station for the A, C, or E lines.
- Take the E train heading towards Jamaica Center–Parsons/Archer.
- Get off the subway at the Sutphin Blvd-Archer Av-JFK Airport station (approximately a 31-minute ride).
- Follow the signs to the AirTrain JFK, which is located at Jamaica Station within the same transportation hub.
- Purchase your AirTrain ticket for $8.50 using a contactless payment method or a MetroCard.
- Board the AirTrain going towards your specific JFK terminal.
- Alight at your designated terminal.
NYC Subway Fare Options (for JFK Connection)
| Fare Type | Cost | Payment Methods |
| Single Ride | $2.90 | Contactless Credit/Debit/Mobile, OMNY Card, MetroCard |
The Direct (and Pricier) Option: Taxi, Uber, or Lyft
For those who prefer a direct and private ride, or are traveling with a lot of luggage, taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft directly from Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall to JFK Airport is an option. However, it’s generally the most expensive. The commute time by car can vary quite a bit, typically ranging from 35 minutes to a full hour, depending heavily on traffic conditions in Manhattan and around the airport. The cost for a taxi or rideshare will fluctuate based on the specific service you choose, the time of day (surge pricing can apply), and the prevailing traffic conditions. If you’re departing from Moynihan Train Hall, the designated pick-up area for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft is located mid-block on 33rd Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. The taxi stand at Moynihan Train Hall is situated mid-block on 31st Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues, near the main entrance. The estimated taxi fare between Penn Station and the Jamaica area (near JFK) is around $70-$85.
Decoding the Costs: A Comprehensive Look
Let’s break down the estimated total one-way cost for each of these connection methods from Amtrak’s Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall to JFK Airport (please note that this does not include the cost of your initial Amtrak ticket):
| Transportation Method | Estimated Total Cost (Low End) | Estimated Total Cost (High End) |
| LIRR and AirTrain | $11.50 | $20.50 |
| Subway and AirTrain | $11.40 | $11.40 |
| Taxi/Uber/Lyft | $70.00 | $85.00+ |
Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Check Schedules in Advance: Always take a moment to verify the LIRR and subway schedules, especially if you’re traveling on a weekend or a public holiday. The MTA TrainTime app and the official MTA website are your best resources for the most up-to-date information.
- Purchase Tickets Online or via Apps: For a seamless experience, consider purchasing your LIRR ticket through the TrainTime app. For the subway and AirTrain, using contactless payment methods can save you time and hassle.
- Allow Sufficient Transfer Time: It’s always wise to factor in ample time for your transfer, especially if you’re not familiar with the stations. Aim for at least 45 to 60 minutes for the entire journey from Penn Station to your terminal at JFK. This buffer will help absorb any unexpected delays or the time it takes to navigate between different transportation systems.
- Be Aware of Peak Travel Times: If you’re opting for the LIRR, remember that fares are typically higher during peak commuting hours on weekdays. If your travel schedule is flexible, consider traveling during off-peak times to save a bit of money.
- Luggage Considerations: If you’re traveling with a significant amount of luggage, the LIRR might be a more comfortable option compared to the subway, as it generally offers more space for bags.
- Accessibility: New York Penn Station, Jamaica Station, and the AirTrain JFK are generally equipped with accessibility features such as elevators and escalators. However, it’s always a good idea to check the official MTA and JFK Airport websites for specific accessibility information relevant to your needs.
- Stay Informed About Service Alerts: Before you head out, quickly check the MTA website or your preferred transit app for any potential service alerts or disruptions that might affect the LIRR or subway lines. This proactive step can help you avoid unexpected delays.
Conclusion:
Getting from Amtrak’s New York City hub at Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall to JFK Airport is definitely achievable and doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By understanding the available options, checking schedules, and planning ahead, you can navigate this connection smoothly and efficiently. Whether you prioritize speed and convenience with the LIRR, budget-friendliness with the subway, or the ease of a direct car ride, there’s a transportation method that will suit your travel style and needs. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the journey, and get ready for your flight!