John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) operates through six distinct passenger terminals numbered 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8, each serving different airlines and geographic regions. Terminal 1 primarily handles international carriers including Lufthansa, Air France, and Korean Air. Terminal 2 is exclusively used by Delta Air Lines for domestic operations. Terminal 4, the airport's largest and most modern terminal, accommodates both Delta's international flights and numerous foreign carriers including Virgin Atlantic, KLM, and El Al. Terminal 5 is JetBlue Airways' home base and flagship terminal, featuring distinctive architecture and amenities. Terminal 7 serves British Airways and several other international carriers, while Terminal 8 is American Airlines' main hub at JFK. The terminals are not connected airside, requiring passengers making inter-terminal connections to exit security, use ground transportation, and re-clear security at their departure terminal. The complimentary AirTrain JFK provides continuous service between all terminals, parking facilities, and connects to New York City public transit via Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station. The AirTrain operates 24/7 with trains running every 4-8 minutes depending on the time of day, making terminal transfers typically take 10-15 minutes including platform walking time. Each terminal maintains its own security checkpoints with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes available in most locations. Security wait times vary significantly by terminal and time of day, with peak periods (5-8 AM and 5-9 PM) often experiencing longer delays. Terminal 4 and Terminal 8 typically have the most robust security infrastructure given their size and passenger volume. Immigration and customs facilities for international arrivals are located in Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8, with Global Entry kiosks available for eligible travelers. JFK offers extensive amenities across all terminals, though the quality and variety differ significantly. Terminal 5 features unique dining concepts and retail options reflective of JetBlue's premium approach. Terminal 4 houses numerous duty-free shops, restaurants, and the flagship Delta Sky Club. Terminal 8 contains multiple American Airlines Admirals Clubs and diverse dining options. Each terminal provides free Wi-Fi, charging stations, family-friendly facilities including nursing rooms and play areas, and accessibility services. Ground transportation options include AirTrain connections to subway and Long Island Rail Road, taxi service, ride-sharing pickup zones, car rentals, and various bus services to Manhattan and other destinations.