Can I walk from Terminal 2 to 1 at JFK?

At JFK you can walk or take the AirTrain from T2 to T1 in <10min (T2 arriving gate to T1 security). It's about the same either way by foot or by train. The 2-3hr recommendation is for originating airport.



At John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, you cannot currently walk between Terminal 2 and Terminal 1 for two primary reasons: distance and ongoing construction. Firstly, Terminal 2 was permanently closed in early 2023 to make way for the massive "New Terminal One" project. The physical structure of the old Terminal 2 is being demolished or integrated into the new construction zone, which is a restricted, non-pedestrian area. Even when Terminal 2 was operational, it was not directly connected to Terminal 1 by a walkable indoor airside path. To travel between any existing terminals at JFK, passengers must use the AirTrain, a free automated people mover that circles the central terminal area. The AirTrain operates 24/7 and is the only authorized way to transfer between the various terminal buildings (Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8). Because of the heavy "New Terminal One" construction through 2026, many roadways and sidewalks in that sector are redirected or closed, making the AirTrain even more essential for navigating the airport safely and efficiently.

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At JFK you can walk or take the AirTrain from T2 to T1 in <10min (T2 arriving gate to T1 security). It's about the same either way by foot or by train. The 2-3hr recommendation is for originating airport.

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Muchly appreciated. Easily walkable. If you don't feel like walking, take the free airport transit train. But the terminals are adjacent to each other, so unless you have lots of luggage or mobility issues, shouldn't be a problem.

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The 60-year-old terminal and its 10 gates close permanently in January. Terminal 2 will be torn down to make way for the New Terminal One projected to open in 2026. A New York City relic is getting a major facelift.

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You will need to reclear TSA security once you arrive in your departure terminal. For international arriving passengers, you must claim all checked bags at Customs and recheck with your departing airline, even if the bags are checked to your final destination! To learn more about the AirTrain system, click here.

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John F Kennedy Airport's Terminal 2 serves Continental only. It contains gates 19-30. John F Kennedy Airport's Terminal 3 serves Comair, Delta, Delta Connection and US Helicopter. It contains gates 1-18.

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STL Airport provides a free Terminal Shuttle which runs 24 hours a day between Exit 12 at both terminals. There is no route to walk between terminals at this time. Shuttle ride time is approximately 10 minutes, as Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are just over one mile apart.

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Yes you will have to reclear security. It will be immigration, claim your bag, customs, recheck your bag, then go through security again.

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You'll need to clear customs and immigration. Next, you'll recheck your luggage for the domestic flight. Finally, you'll need to go through Transportation Security Administration screening. This may include a physical inspection of your luggage and personal items with a metal detector or a full-body scan.

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You'll need to pick-up your luggage, then check it in again for the next flight. Top Tip: A wait at the airport between two connecting flights is called a layover. For more travel advice, check out our guide to dealing with a short layover.

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