Passengers flying through John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) often wonder, does Amtrak go to JFK airport? The short answer is no, there is no Amtrak station inside the airport building. However, passengers can take the Amtrak to reach the nearest station in New York City. From there, they can easily transfer to Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), AirTrain, or Subway to reach JFK Airport to continue their journey. The New York Penn Station is the closest Amtrak station to JFK that connects major cities like Washington, Boston, Philadelphia, and Albany. Almost all Amtrak routes serving New York stop at this station.
Does Amtrak Run Directly to JFK Airport?
No, Amtrak does not run directly to JFK, but it is still the most convenient way to reach the airport using a combination of rail and local transit. Travellers can use the closest Amtrak station to JFK airport for reasy transfer.
Which is the Nearest Station to JFK?
The closest station to JFK is Amtrak Station New York Penn, which is the main rail hub in Manhattan. It is located at New York, NY 10119, United States. The distance between the station and the airport is 41m. Almost all major Amtrak routes stop at Penn Station, including:
- Northeast Regional
- Acela
- Keystone Sevices
- Empire Services
- Adirondack
- Lake Shore Limited
- Silver Meteor
- Palmetto
- Crescent
- Cardinal
- Pennsylvanian
- Carolinian
- Maple Leaf
Note: Read the blog on how to find an Amtrak station near me.
How to Get from New York Penn Station to JFK?
There are several ways to get from amtrak station near JFK Airport, such as the Long Island Rail Road, AirTrain, and subway. All these options are quickly accessible and affordable.
Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): After stepping out from the Amtrak train, look for the Long Island Rail Road signs. Take the train heading toward Jamaica Station. From there, transfer to the JFK AirTrain to reach the assigned terminal. The whole journey will take around 30-35 minutes and cost between $15.25 and $25.75.
Subway: Another convenient option to reach JFK airport is by subway. Take the A subway line from Penn Station area to Howard Beach-JFK Airport Station. Here, transfer to AirTrain JFK. It will take around 60-75 minutes.
Taxi or Ride Share: Taxi and ride share services also connect the nearest Amtrak station to JFK Airport. They usually take 45-90 minutes, depending on traffic. These are the best options for door-to-door pick up and drop off, but can be expensive.
Additionally, if travelling in a group or specific time period, shuttle services are also available.
Top Reasons to Choose New York Penn Station to JFK Airport
While Amtrak does not go directly to JFK, it offers excellent connectivity to New York City, making airport transfers easy. Here are some top reasons to choose Penn Station when travelling to JFK airport:
- The closest Amtrak station to JFK airport provides quick access to JFK via subway, LIRR, or taxi.
- The train has spacious seating, restrooms, and onboard service that make the journey more relaxed.
- Trains run frequently and follow reliable timetables, making trip planning easier.
- Amtrak is often safe and more affordable than driving long distances.
- Travelling by train helps avoid traffic around New York City, especially during the peak hours or the holiday season.
- Amtrak baggage policies are generous, which is helpful for airport travellers.
Note: Read how much luggage you can take on Amtrak before planning a trip.
Travel Tips for Reaching JFK Airport via Amtrak
Planning with the proper selection of the closest Amtrak station to JFK Airport, allowing enough time, and staying informed can help to save time and avoid the last-minute stress. Here are some of the pro tips:
- Reach Penn Station at least 3-4 hours early before the flight departure.
- Check the train station online through the website or mobile app to avoid delay.
- Save the flight and train tickets on the phone and also take a hard copy for quick access.
- Carry all the required documents in case of an emergency.
- Try to carry less luggage.
- If using a taxi or rideshare, check traffic updates before departure.
- Always have a backup plan in case of service changes.
Final Words!
Amtrak does not go directly to JFK airport, but it is still a convenient way to reach the airport through connecting rail networks and local transport services. Passengers can reach the New York Penn Station (the closest station to JFK) and from there take the LIRR, AirTrain, subway, taxi, ride share services, or shuttles to access JFK airport terminals.
FAQs-Frequently Asked Questions
No, Amtrak does not run directly to JFK Airport.
The nearest station is New York Penn Station in Manhattan.
Passengers can take the LIRR, AirTrain, subway, taxi, ride share services, or shuttles from Penn Station.
No, there is no Amtrak station inside JFK terminals.
The fastest way from the Amtrak station near JFK Airport is the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Take the LIRR from Penn Station to Jamaica, then the AirTrain. The whole journey takes around 30-35 minutes.
Yes, Amtrak allows luggage on the train.
Yes, many international travelers use Amtrak to reach New York before heading to JFK.
