Skip to main content

This easy way to go from JFK airport to the middle of NYC just got less expensive

Summer travel: Try taking AirTrain from JFK Airport to NYC

Skyline of NYC
New York City Florian Wehde via Unsplash

This summer, visitors to NYC have a quick, thrifty way to zip from JFK Airport to the heart of the city. Recently, Governor Kathy Hochul and The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey announced a 50% fare reduction for AirTrain, to help mitigate delays from airport construction. 

By hopping on the AirTrain at a reduced price, travelers can avoid delays due to the airport’s current renovations. Here’s what you need to know.

Recommended Videos

There’s a massive renovation going on at JFK Airport — AirTrain helps you avoid the backups

Renovations at JFK Airport
JFK Airport renovations Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

JFK Airport is in the midst of a $19 billion renovation. That includes two new terminals, expansion and updating of existing terminals, unique dining and retail, New York artwork, and redesigned roadways. The project aims to transform the global hub into a world-class facility. All of that construction means clogged roads and parking — but AirTrain comes to the rescue.

Instead of visiting a car rental desk and then waiting in traffic, travelers can hop on the AirTrain and take a direct trip into the city. Through Labor Day, the typical $8.50 fare goes to $4.25, making it a cheap, convenient way to visit the Big Apple. 

Governor Hochul stated, “With transformational construction underway at JFK, we’re taking steps to mitigate travel delays and affirm what’s always been true – there’s no better option than taking the train to the plane.”

She continued, “As we kick off a busy summer, we’re making it more affordable for travelers to utilize the AirTrain, offering New Yorkers and visitors from around the world the best-in-class travel experience they deserve.”

Not only does the airport face construction delays, but also record travel volume. The Port Authority and industry analysts forecast 700,000 more travelers going through JFK Airport than a year prior. This summer, taking the train just makes sense. 

Mark Reif
Mark Reif is a writer from Stowe, Vermont. During the winter, he works as a snowboard coach and rides more than 100 days. The…
Travel to Hawaii might just get a little more expensive
How much is a trip to Hawaii? Well, there's one more fee you might have to factor in soon
A view of the beach with the city in the distance.

We've all taken advantage of doing a bit of traveling these past few years. Working remotely allowed us to login from anywhere we wanted, and we made the most of it. But the opportunity for more travel also comes with the opportunity for us to be a bit of a pain at certain places.

In the gorgeous state of Hawaii, the wear and tear from tourism is reaching the tipping point at state parks, trails, and beaches. To bring those sought-after locations back to life, the state is trying to pass the Hawaii Green Fee. What does this mean for your wallet when planning your next Hawaiian travel vacation? Let's break it down.

Read more
Want incredible sushi in NYC? Go to this speakeasy (really!)
The Office of Mr. Moto in the East Village is more than meets the eye.
Office of Mr. Moto sushi entrance.

The entrance to The Office of Mr. Moto. Victorian-era mailbox with a PIN pad inside. Image used with permission by copyright holder

There's no shortage of sushi restaurants in NYC, but at the Big Apple's newest sushi omakase, entering the establishment requires a bit of intrigue. The Office of Mr. Moto isn't your standard sushi omakase — it's a speakeasy. The door to the restaurant is unmarked, and one could easily walk past without realizing it. To even enter the restaurant requires not only a reservation but also some detective work. First, prospective diners must solve a cipher in a letter (sent by email) before entering that code on a PIN pad at the Victoria-era mailbox at the entrance.

Read more
National parks in Washington state: 7 hidden treasures you should know about
We love these national parks and we think you will, too
Mount Rainier, Washington state

Washington state is, without a doubt, one of the prettiest corners of America. I admit, I'm totally biased, having been stationed here for about two years from the scorching state of Arizona. Don't get me wrong, the desert definitely has its charms, but I've always been a pine trees, waterfalls, and green mountains kind of gal, so when we moved up here, it honestly felt like heaven.

During the past couple of years, my husband and I have discovered so many jaw-dropping NPS sites, from Mount Rainier to the Cascades, and I can't wait to share some of our favorite treasures. Some of these spots will be famous and well loved, and others are definitely ones that should be in the spotlight.
Mount Rainier National Park

Read more