JFK Terminal 8 is a major passenger terminal serving domestic and international flights. If you're flying from, arriving at, or connecting through Terminal 8, this guide covers the practical information you need before you travel: airlines, gates, arrivals, departures, lounges, parking, AirTrain, transportation, pickup and current airport changes.
JFK Terminal 8 at a Glance
American Airlines, British Airways, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways and other carriers.
Terminal 8 has gate areas covering the 1–20 and 31–47 ranges.
The Red Garage is the on-airport parking facility serving Terminal 8.
Free between passenger terminals. Jamaica and Howard Beach service is $8.75.
Important: airline terminal assignments can change. If your ticket is a codeshare, check the operating airline and current terminal assignment rather than relying only on the airline that sold your ticket.
Airlines at JFK Terminal 8
JFK currently lists 14 airlines operating from Terminal 8. The terminal serves a mix of major U.S., international and oneworld-affiliated carriers.
| Airline | IATA | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | AS | +1 (800) 252-7522 |
| American Airlines | AA | +1 (800) 433-7300 |
| British Airways | BA | +1 (800) 247-9297 |
| Cathay Pacific | CX | +1 (800) 233-2742 |
| China Southern | CZ | +1 (888) 338-8988 |
| Finnair | AY | +1 (800) 950-5000 |
| GOL Linhas Aéreas | G3 | +1 (855) 862-9190 |
| Hawaiian Airlines | HA | +1 (800) 367-5320 |
| Iberia | IB | +1 (800) 772-4642 |
| Japan Airlines | JL | +1 (800) 525-3663 |
| LEVEL | LL | +1 (800) 772-4642 |
| Qantas | QF | +1 (800) 227-4500 |
| Qatar Airways | QR | +1 (877) 777-2827 |
| Royal Jordanian | RJ | +1 (212) 949-0050 |
Airline assignments and contact information can change. Check with your airline before travel, particularly if your itinerary contains a codeshare.
Is Terminal 8 international?
Yes. Terminal 8 handles both domestic and international flights. Several major international carriers operate from the terminal alongside American Airlines and other partner airlines.
For an international flight, check the operating carrier and your current terminal assignment before traveling.
JFK Terminal 8 Gates and Layout
Terminal 8 has two principal gate areas, with gates in the 1–20 and 31–47 ranges. The official JFK terminal information provides estimated walking times from security to the different gate groups.
Gates 1–20
These gates are generally closer to the security checkpoint. Official walking estimates are approximately 2–5 minutes for gates 1–10 and 2–4 minutes for gates 12–20.
Gates 31–47
This gate area is farther from security. Official walking estimates are approximately 6–12 minutes for gates 31–41 and 6–8 minutes for gates 42–47.
| Gate range | Approximate walk from security |
|---|---|
| 1–10 | 2–5 minutes |
| 12–20 | 2–4 minutes |
| 31–41 | 6–12 minutes |
| 42–47 | 6–8 minutes |
Check your actual gate after security. If you're heading toward the 31–47 gate area, allow additional walking time.
Use the official JFK interactive airport map →
JFK Terminal 8 Departures
For a departure from Terminal 8, check your airline and operating carrier before arriving. Your check-in counter, bag drop and gate can vary by airline and flight.
After checking in and passing security, check the airport monitors for your current gate. Gate assignments can change after you arrive.
How early should I arrive at Terminal 8?
A practical planning rule is to allow about 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. During busy travel periods, construction or unusual traffic conditions, allow additional time.
Your airline's own recommended arrival time should take priority, especially if you're checking baggage or need special assistance.
JFK TSA and security information →
JFK Terminal 8 Arrivals
Terminal 8 handles both domestic and international arrivals. After leaving the aircraft, follow the signs for baggage claim and ground transportation.
If you're meeting an arriving passenger, agree on the pickup plan before they leave the baggage area. Terminal curbs are intended for active pickup rather than waiting.
International arrivals at Terminal 8
Passengers arriving internationally may need to complete U.S. immigration, collect checked baggage, clear customs and then continue to their next destination or connecting flight.
If your next flight departs from another JFK terminal, allow additional time for the arrival process, transportation between terminals and security screening.
Read the official JFK connections guide →
JFK Terminal 8 Lounges
Terminal 8 has several American Airlines and oneworld lounges. Access depends on your ticket, cabin, airline status and the applicable lounge rules.
Admirals Club
American Airlines lounge access is available to eligible travelers under the current Admirals Club rules.
Greenwich Lounge
A premium lounge option for eligible American Airlines and oneworld travelers.
Soho Lounge
A premium lounge serving eligible American Airlines and oneworld passengers.
Chelsea Lounge
A premium lounge with more restrictive access requirements than a standard airport lounge.
Lounge access policies can change, so check the current rules for your ticket and frequent-flyer status before relying on lounge access.
Check current American Airlines lounge information →
Food and Shopping at Terminal 8
Terminal 8 has been substantially redeveloped and now offers dozens of shops and restaurants, including sit-down dining, grab-and-go food, travel essentials, duty-free shopping and New York-inspired brands.
The new concessions program gives passengers considerably more dining and retail choice than older Terminal 8 guides suggest.
Dine
Choose from sit-down restaurants, food-hall options and grab-and-go food throughout the terminal.
Shop
Terminal 8 offers travel essentials, souvenirs, luxury retail and duty-free shopping.
Restaurant and shop locations and opening hours can change. Check current airport information or terminal signage on the day of travel.
Parking at JFK Terminal 8
If you're driving to Terminal 8, the Red Garage is the on-airport parking facility serving the terminal.
Check JFK parking availability before leaving home. Airport construction and heavy traffic can affect parking access and travel times.
For current rates, long-term parking, ADA parking, EV charging, reservations and parking advice, use our dedicated JFK parking guide.
JFK Airport Parking: current rates, lots and cheapest options →
Check current JFK construction impacts →
AirTrain at JFK Terminal 8
Terminal 8 is connected to the JFK AirTrain system. AirTrain links the passenger terminals with parking areas, Federal Circle, hotel shuttles, rental cars and public transportation.
AirTrain travel between JFK passenger terminals is free.
Current one-way AirTrain fare between JFK and Jamaica.
Current one-way AirTrain fare between JFK and Howard Beach.
Check station monitors for current service changes.
AirTrain travel between terminals is free. Your complete transfer time will also include walking and any required security screening.
The current official JFK AirTrain fare is $8.75 for travel to or from Jamaica or Howard Beach. Terminal-to-terminal travel is free.
Getting to JFK Terminal 8
Taxi
Use the official taxi pickup areas outside the terminal and follow airport signs. Avoid unsolicited transportation offers.
Uber and Lyft
Ride-app pickup locations can change because of airport construction. Follow current airport signs and instructions in your app.
Rental cars
Most rental car operations are at Federal Circle and are connected to JFK terminals by AirTrain.
Hotels
Airport hotel shuttle services use designated airport pickup areas. Check your hotel's current shuttle instructions before traveling.
Pickup and Drop-off at Terminal 8
Terminal 8 curbs are for active passenger pickup and drop-off. If your passenger is not ready, don't wait at the terminal curb.
For pickups, use the designated waiting area and drive to Terminal 8 once your passenger confirms they are ready.
Wait first, drive to the terminal second. This is usually easier than repeatedly circling the terminal while trying to find your arriving passenger.
Complete JFK pickup and drop-off guide →
Connecting Through JFK Terminal 8
JFK is a multi-terminal airport. Your connecting flight may depart from a different terminal even if both flights appear on the same itinerary.
If you need to change terminals, use the free AirTrain between passenger terminals. Allow additional time because a terminal change requires another TSA security screening.
| Connection | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Same terminal | Follow the signs and your airline's instructions to the next gate. |
| Different JFK terminal | Use the free AirTrain and allow time for another security screening. |
| International arrival | Depending on your itinerary, expect immigration, baggage collection, customs, recheck and security before the next flight. |
| Separate tickets | You may need to complete the full arrival process and check in again with the connecting airline. |
Official JFK connecting flights guide →
Accessibility at Terminal 8
JFK provides accessibility services throughout the airport. Travelers who need wheelchair assistance or other mobility support should arrange assistance with their airline in advance whenever possible.
If you're driving, accessible parking is available at JFK parking facilities. Eligible travelers can use the airport's ADA parking discount subject to the current rules.
Official JFK accessibility and services information →
Wi-Fi, Baggage and Other Services
Terminal 8 provides the basic services travelers need before and after a flight, including Wi-Fi, baggage services, passenger assistance and other airport amenities.
JFK luggage storage information →
Lost Something at Terminal 8?
If you lose an item at Terminal 8, the correct lost-and-found process depends on where the item was lost. Items left on an aircraft, at TSA, in a terminal area or in a parking facility can be handled by different organizations.
Use the dedicated JFK lost-and-found information rather than the Terminal 8 page as a public lost-and-found board.
JFK Terminal 8 Construction and 2026 Updates
JFK is undergoing a major redevelopment program. Construction can affect road access, traffic patterns, parking availability and pickup arrangements.
Before leaving home:
- Confirm your terminal and operating airline.
- Check current parking availability if you're driving.
- Allow additional time for airport traffic.
- Follow current airport signs rather than an old GPS route.
- Check official construction advisories before your trip.
Check current JFK construction information →
JFK Terminal 8 FAQ
Which airlines are at JFK Terminal 8?
JFK currently lists 14 airlines at Terminal 8: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Finnair, GOL Linhas Aéreas, Hawaiian Airlines, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LEVEL, Qantas, Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian.
Is JFK Terminal 8 international?
Yes. Terminal 8 handles both domestic and international flights.
How many gates are at JFK Terminal 8?
Terminal 8's current gate areas cover the 1–20 and 31–47 ranges. Check your actual gate and the current airport map rather than relying only on a total gate count.
How long does it take to walk to Terminal 8 gates?
Official JFK estimates range from about 2–5 minutes for gates 1–10 to about 6–12 minutes for gates 31–41, measured from the security checkpoint.
Does Terminal 8 have lounges?
Yes. Terminal 8 has several American Airlines and oneworld lounges, including the Admirals Club, Greenwich Lounge, Soho Lounge and Chelsea Lounge. Access depends on your ticket and eligibility.
Where should I park for Terminal 8?
The Red Garage is the on-airport parking facility serving Terminal 8. Check current parking availability before driving to JFK.
Is the AirTrain free from Terminal 8?
AirTrain travel between JFK passenger terminals is free. The current one-way fare to Jamaica or Howard Beach is $8.75.
How do I get from Terminal 8 to another terminal?
Take the free AirTrain between passenger terminals. Allow additional time because passengers changing terminals normally need to pass through TSA security again.
Where do I pick someone up at Terminal 8?
Terminal curbs are intended for active pickup and drop-off. If you arrive early, wait in a designated waiting area and drive to Terminal 8 once your passenger is ready.
JFK pickup and drop-off guide →
Does Terminal 8 have restaurants?
Yes. Terminal 8 has a large selection of shops and restaurants following its recent redevelopment, including dining, grab-and-go food and New York-inspired retail.
Does Delta or JetBlue fly from Terminal 8?
No. Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways are not listed among the airlines currently operating from Terminal 8. Always check your current flight details because terminal assignments can change.
Is Terminal 8 affected by construction?
Yes. JFK construction can affect roads, traffic, parking and airport access. Check current construction information before driving to the airport.
Current JFK construction information →
Information sources: JFK Airport and Port Authority information is used for current airline, terminal, AirTrain, parking and construction information. Airline assignments, gate information, parking availability, restaurant hours and airport procedures can change.
Last reviewed: August 24, 2026.
I arrive from ORD to JFK at
I arrive from ORD to JFK at 16.20 with AA and my flight to Helsinki leaves at 17.40 (FinnAIr). Will I have to pass the security again and is this enough time as everything is at Terminal 8? Thanks!
I am going to a business
I am going to a business trip to Orlando Florida.
i'll be arriving (on American Airlines) from London, at Terminal 7 at 11:00 am. my flight departs to Orlando (on American Airlines) at 3:20 pm(at terminal 8).
My question is:
Since this is a transit situation, just for connecting flights, do i have to go through security and custom immigration when i arrive in NY? or just in Orlando?
how much time it requires to reach terminal 8 from terminal 7?
do i need to collect my luggage? or the AA will reconnect my bags?
1 hr connection time for domestic TO international
I am arriving at JFK on a Friday night at 8:50pm from Boston and departing on a 10pm flight to Buenos Aires. Is 1 hour 10 minutes enough time to make the change of plane since I am going from a domstic flight to an internatinoal flight?
Boston (BOS)
Depart 7:20 pm
Terminal B to New York (JFK) Terminal 8
Arrive 8:50 pm
Flight: 1807
New York (JFK)
Depart 10:00 pm Terminal 8
to Buenos Aires (EZE)
Connections
I have a few colleagues that are going to a business trip to Las Vegas.
They are arriving (on American Airlines) from London, at Terminal 8 at 3pm. They have 1.30' to connect (also at terminal 8) to Las Vegas.
My question is:
Since this is a transit situation, just for connecting flights, do they have to go through security and custom immigration when they arrive in NY? or just in LV?
Who much time it is this?
They need to collect their luggage? or the AA will reconnect their bags?
And if they lose the connection flight to LV?
What is the best route
What is the best route between terminal 4 and 8? What are the options? Thank you!
Hi! I need to make you a
Hi! I need to make you a question and I hope you can help me.My mother will arrive to terminal 4 (Taca ) at 1 a.m. and i will arrive to terminal 8 (AA) AT 6 A.M. My mother will wait for me, and we dont´t know where she can do that. My question is: a) How much is the distance between both terminals?, b) Can she walk that distance with her luggage (from terminal 4 to terminal 8) or she need to take a taxi or a transfer? c) In terminal 8, is there any place where get information about my flight so she can wait me in the correct gate? Thank you very much!
Connection Time
Hi, I am a travel agent, and wonder if it's ok to offer my customer 2 separate tickets with a connection time of 4 Hours.
He will arrive terminal 8, but should depart from terminal 4.
Will he have enough time to make it through?
Custom & Immigration for transit between Terminal 8 & Terminal 4
I am arriving AA from Canada at JFK Terminal 8 at 1:10 PM. I only have carry-on bags, no check-in bags. I need to connect flight at Terminal 4 Air India at 3 PM.
(a) Since this is a transit situation just for connecting flights between 2 terminals, do I have to go through security and custom immigration again at Terminal 4 ?
(b) Since I have carry-on bags, how much time is needed to go from Terminal 8 to Terminal 4, if I have to clear custom & immigation, and security again ?
(c) Is there usually a long line for custom & security clearance at Terminal 4 ?
Thank you !
immigration
I am flying from Italy, to Bermuda via JFK (both on American), and have a tight connection. If I'm not staying on American soil, do I still go through immigration? Thanks.
In reply to immigration by Question (not verified)
Yes you do.
Yes you do.
UK to San Juan via JFK by AA
Hi
I travel next month AA from UK to JFK then on to San Juan also on AA. I understand we have to go through passport control and immigration but do we need to collect our luggage. I was told by our travel agent that our luggage would automatically be transferred between planes and straight to our ship in San Juan, which I can't bring myself to beleive.
termianl 8 customs and passport control locaions
I will be arriving on Finnair at termainl 8 and making a connection to American leaving 75 minutes later to San Diego. Will I be going through passport and customs control in terminal 8? Will I have time to retrieve luggage, go through customs, recheck luggage and make my connection? Will I have to go through security again or can I go directly to my boarding gate? Thanks
TIME TO CATCH ANOTHER FLIGHT
HELLO! I will be arriving in LAN from Santiago-Chile on a Saturday at 7.30AM. will I have enough time to go through customs/security/immgration and take a Jet Blue Flight (no idea at what terminal) that departs at 9AM?
Thanks
T7 and T8
We are flying into JFK on BA from LHR, connecting to a AA flight to Tampa. Two questions; 1. Do we have to collect our luggage at JFK to re-check them for AA flight? 2. What is the best way to transfer to AA terminal from T7? Thanks
In reply to T7 and T8 by Matt (not verified)
Yes all international
Yes all international flights must clear customs with the first US port of entry which means you must pick up your luggage. Afterwards the airline will reconnect your bags if you have 90 minutes between flights. Follow the signs for the airtrain, once on, 1 stop over to Terminal 8 which is American Airlines.
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