Travelers going in and out of New York City will get a summer treat.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is slashing AirTrain fares to John F. Kennedy International Airport by 50% in an attempt to reduce summer traffic congestion.
Fares will drop from $8.50 to $4.25 starting June 30 and will last through Labor Day, Sept. 1.
The half-price fare applies at both the Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations, and commuters can pay via OMNY or MetroCard.
Some travelers view the AirTrain as an inconvenient way for them to get to JFK with their luggage, but the reduced fare might make them reconsider — especially as traffic from summer travel picks up.
For the second consecutive year, the Port Authority forecasts that summer passenger volume at JFK will set a new record with 18.3 million expected travelers.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole also warned of the “busy summer construction period” at JFK.
The airport is in the midst of a $19 billion renovation — the largest airport redevelopment project in the U.S., according to The Points Guy.
The renovation, which is approaching the peak of its construction and roadway work, includes Terminals 1, 4, 6 and 8.
“We are once again asking travelers to leave their cars at home and take public transit to the airport. The discounted AirTrain fare is one of a multitude of steps we’re taking to move passengers to and from JFK as quickly and reliably as possible,” O’Toole said.
“Yes, there will be some temporary inconvenience. But it’s all part of building an airport our region can be proud of — for decades to come.”
Those who choose to drive are being urged to arrive three hours early and to reserve parking in advance due to limited space.
Additionally, those using services like Uber or Lyft will need to meet their drivers at a remote pick-up lot to “avoid gridlock.” Free shuttles will run to the relocated lots.
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