AirTrain JFK
The automated rail link connecting JFK terminals to the subway at Jamaica and Howard Beach.
Example
The route locals use is AirTrain to Jamaica and the E train onward, about an hour to Midtown for a fraction of a taxi fare.
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Related terms
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Q70 LaGuardia Link
The free express bus connecting LaGuardia Airport to the subway and LIRR at Jackson Heights and Woodside.
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OMNY
The MTA's tap-to-pay fare system on all subways and buses, which took over from the MetroCard when card sales ended...
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Yellow Cab
The classic metered taxi hailed from the street, still the fastest door-to-door option in the Manhattan core.
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MetroCard
The yellow swipe card that ruled New York transit from 1993 until sales ended December 31, 2025.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest reliable way from JFK to Manhattan?
AirTrain to Jamaica plus the E train, roughly an hour to Midtown. The LIRR upgrade halves the rail time for a few dollars more.
Should I just take a taxi from JFK?
Yellow cabs charge a flat rate to Manhattan plus tolls and tip, worth it for groups or luggage. Solo on a budget, AirTrain wins.
Is the LIRR upgrade worth it from Jamaica?
For a few dollars more it halves the rail time into Penn Station or Grand Central Madison, which is worth it with luggage or after a long flight.
