New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), an international airport located in Queens, New York City, is one of the busiest airports in the world. Officially designated with the FAA identifier JFK, this public airport serves as a major gateway to the United States and a vital hub for both domestic and international travel. This guide provides a detailed overview of JFK, drawing from official FAA data, to offer a comprehensive understanding of its operations, facilities, and key features.
Location and Basic Information
JFK Airport is situated at Latitude 40-38-23.7410N and Longitude 073-46-43.2920W, approximately 13 miles southeast of New York City. At an elevation of 13 feet (4.0 meters) above sea level, the airport experiences a magnetic variation of 13W as of 2020. Operating in the UTC -5 time zone (UTC -4 during Daylight Saving Time), JFK’s zip code is 11430. The airport has been serving the public since January 1939, marking decades of continuous operation and development.
Airport Operations and Services
John F. Kennedy International Airport is open to the public and operates continuously. It features a control tower and is under the jurisdiction of the New York Center Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC). Flight Service Station (FSS) services are provided by the New York Flight Service Station. Pilots can access NOTAM-D service specifically for JFK through its designated NOTAM facility.
The airport is equipped with a lighted wind indicator and a beacon emitting white-green lights, signifying a lighted land airport operating from sunset to sunrise. Landing fees are applicable at JFK. In terms of emergency services, JFK is categorized under ARFF index E, indicating a high level of fire and rescue capability. Furthermore, JFK holds the status of a customs landing rights airport, facilitating international operations.
For ground communication, UNICOM frequency is 122.95. Weather information is accessible via WX ASOS phone at 718-656-0956. Ground control communications are managed through frequencies 121.9, 348.6, and 121.65 (Kennedy Ground). The air traffic control tower operates on multiple frequencies depending on the runway in use: 119.1 and 281.55 for Runways 04R/22L, 13L/31R, and 123.9 and 281.55 for Runways 04L/22R, 13R/31L (Kennedy Tower).
New York Approach control can be reached on various frequencies including 125.7, 128.125, 109.5T, 118.4, 123.7, 126.8, 132.4, and 134.35. Departure control utilizes frequencies 135.9, 123.7, 124.75, and 134.35 (New York Departure). For clearance delivery and pre-taxi clearance, pilots should use 135.05 and 348.6, designated for North & South areas respectively.
Additional communication frequencies include CAMRN STAR, CLASS B, D-ATIS, EMERG, IC, KINGSTON STAR, LENDY STAR, PARCH STAR, PAWLING STAR, RAMP CTL, and ROBER STAR. Nearby weather updates are available from LGA (9 nm NW), JRB (11 nm W), FRG (17 nm E), TEB (18 nm NW), and EWR (18 nm W) via phone or specific frequencies.
Important operational notes include: CLASS B frequencies utilized below 2000’/BLO within 8 NM are TWR frequencies. Caution is advised due to potential radio interference or false ATC instructions. ASDE-X is in use, requiring transponders with altitude reporting mode and ADS-B enabled. During busy arrival periods, aircraft may expect to leave and re-enter Class B airspace.
Radio Navigation Aids
JFK Airport and its vicinity are supported by several radio navigation aids. The KENNEDY VOR/DME (JFK) is located at the field itself, operating at a frequency of 115.90 with a variation of 12W. Nearby VOR/DMEs include CANARSIE (CRI) at 5.5 nautical miles on radial 084, LA GUARDIA (LGA) at 9.5 nautical miles on radial 167, TETERBORO (TEB) at 18.0 nautical miles on radial 145, DEER PARK (DPK) at 23.4 nautical miles on radial 259, COLTS NECK (COL) at 26.3 nautical miles on radial 052, and CARMEL (CMK) at 39.4 nautical miles on radial 205. These aids are crucial for navigation in and around the New York metropolitan area.
Airport Services
A range of services are available at JFK Airport. Fuel options include 100LL and JET-A. However, it’s important to note that for general aviation, non-based charter, and non-based commercial aircraft operators, fuel arrangements must be made prior to arrival by contacting 347-566-6620 or UNICOM 122.95. Parking is available in hangars. Aircraft maintenance services are comprehensive, with both major airframe and powerplant services offered. Bottled and bulk oxygen are available at high pressure.
Runway Information
JFK boasts four runways, each with unique dimensions, surface characteristics, and approach capabilities.
Runway 13R/31L
This is the longest runway, measuring 14511 x 200 ft. (4423 x 61 m). Its surface is concrete/grooved and in excellent condition. Runway 13R/31L has a high weight-bearing capacity, and high-intensity edge lights. Runway 13R has a right traffic pattern, while Runway 31L has a left traffic pattern. Declared distances are extensive, and both runways are equipped with precision markings and RVR equipment. Runway 13R features a RLLS approach lighting system, while Runway 31L has no approach lights listed. Both ends have centerline lights and touchdown point markings, and Runway 13R supports ILS instrument approaches.
Runway 4L/22R
Runway 4L/22R measures 12079 x 200 ft. (3682 x 61 m), also with a concrete/grooved surface in excellent condition and high weight-bearing capacity. Both Runway 4L and 22R have left traffic patterns. Declared distances vary, and both are marked with precision markings and RVR equipment. Neither runway has runway end identifier lights, but both have centerline lights. Runway 4L has lighted touchdown point markings, while Runway 22R does not. Both runways support ILS/DME instrument approaches. Runway 22R has a 70 ft. tree obstruction at a distance.
Runway 13L/31R
Runway 13L/31R is 10000 x 200 ft. (3048 x 61 m) with a concrete/grooved surface in excellent condition and high weight-bearing capacity. Runway 13L has a right traffic pattern, and Runway 31R has a left traffic pattern. Declared distances are provided, and both runways have precision markings and RVR equipment. Runway 13L is equipped with ALSF2 and RLLS approach lights, while Runway 31R has MALSR approach lights. Both ends have centerline and lighted touchdown point markings, and both support ILS/DME instrument approaches. Obstructions include a pole and a tree near Runways 13L and 31R respectively.
Runway 4R/22L
The shortest runway at JFK, Runway 4R/22L, is 8400 x 200 ft. (2560 x 61 m) with an asphalt/grooved surface in excellent condition and high weight-bearing capacity. Both Runway 4R and 22L operate with left traffic patterns and have identical declared distances. Precision markings and RVR equipment are standard. Both are equipped with ALSF2 approach lights, centerline lights, and lighted touchdown point markings. ILS/DME instrument approaches are available for both. Runway 22L has a tree obstruction.
Airport Ownership and Management
John F. Kennedy International Airport is publicly owned by the PORT AUTHORITY OF NY AND NJ. The owner’s office is located at 4 World Trade Center, 150 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10006. The property itself is leased from the City of New York, Bureau of Ferry and General Aviation. The airport manager is Teresa Rizzuto, with the management office situated in Building 14 in Jamaica, NY 11430.
Additional Remarks
Several additional remarks provide crucial operational details. PCR values are specified for each runway. Caution is advised regarding Runway 13R being potentially confused with Runway 13L. EMAS systems are installed at the departure ends of Runways 22L and 04R. Bird flocks are common in and around the airport. Converging operations on Runways 13R and 22L are conducted via arrival distance windows. Metering procedures are in effect during specific hours, requiring ramp control contact prior to pushback. Aircraft operations and taxiway restrictions apply to large aircraft like A380 and B747-800. GAT helipad markings and lighting are non-standard. Specific details are provided about RLLS and PAPI systems for certain runways. Taxiway speed restrictions exist for large aircraft on Taxiway ‘A’. Various taxiway and runway maintenance and closure notices are active. Noise abatement restrictions are in place, and non-standard EMAS systems are noted. Runway status lights are operational, and continuous taxiway maintenance is ongoing. High VFR traffic volume is expected along the shoreline south of JFK. Specific taxiway turn closures and aircraft stopping restrictions on bridges are in effect. Periodic fire department training occurs near Runways 22L & 22R. Runway 31R distance remaining sign is missing, and non-standard markings are present in the GA apron. Obstructions from parked aircraft are noted, and A380/B747-800 taxi speed is restricted. JFK apron building 73 ramp is closed to large wingspan aircraft, and Taxiway Z is closed. Para-sail and banner towing operations occur in nearby bays. Special air traffic rules apply as JFK is a high-density airport requiring prior reservation.
Instrument Procedures
A range of instrument procedures are available at JFK, including STARs (Standard Terminal Arrivals) such as CAMRN FOUR, KINGSTON ONE, LENDY EIGHT, PARCH THREE (RNAV), and PAWLING TWO. Numerous IAPs (Instrument Approach Procedures) are available for various runways, including ILS, RNAV (RNP) Z, RNAV (GPS), VOR, and visual approaches. Departure Procedures include DEEZZ FIVE (RNAV), KENNEDY FIVE, and SKORR FIVE (RNAV). Special Alternate Minimums and Take-Off Minimums/Departure Procedures may apply and are available for download as PDF documents.
Nearby Airports
Several other airports with instrument procedures are located near JFK, including LaGuardia Airport (KLGA), East 34th Street Heliport (6N5), Downtown Manhattan/Wall Street Heliport (KJRB), West 30th St Heliport (KJRA), Republic Airport (KFRG), Teterboro Airport (KTEB), and Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR).
This comprehensive guide to New York John F. Kennedy International Airport is based on FAA data effective February 20, 2025, and serves as an informational resource for aviation professionals and enthusiasts seeking detailed knowledge about this major international airport.
