In March 2026, the average security wait time at JFK Terminal 1 fluctuates between 10 and 25 minutes for general passengers, though it can spike to 45 minutes during the "international rush" (typically between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM). Terminal 1 is unique because it hosts many major international carriers like Air France, Lufthansa, and Korean Air, leading to concentrated waves of travelers. If you have TSA PreCheck, your wait is significantly shorter, often under 5 minutes, though not all Terminal 1 airlines participate in the program consistently. In 2026, JFK has implemented more "Computed Tomography" (CT) scanners, which allow you to keep electronics and liquids in your bag, theoretically speeding up the line, but the sheer volume of international "checked" luggage often slows the process. To be safe, travelers in 2026 are advised to arrive at Terminal 1 at least 3 hours before an international flight to account for both baggage check-in and potential security bottlenecks.
As of February 2026, security wait times at JFK Terminal 1 are surprisingly efficient, often ranging from 1 to 10 minutes for the general line. Because Terminal 1 primarily handles international long-haul carriers (like Air France, Lufthansa, and Korean Air), the passenger flow is concentrated around specific departure "banks," meaning it can be empty one hour and very busy the next. For those with TSA PreCheck, the wait is almost always under 2 minutes or non-existent. However, travelers should be cautious: Terminal 1 is currently undergoing significant redevelopment as part of the "New Terminal One" project, which can lead to occasional gate changes or redirected foot traffic. While the actual security screening is fast, you should still arrive 3 hours early for international flights to allow for check-in and document verification, as the terminal's layout can make walking to the furthest gates a 10-to-15-minute journey after you clear the checkpoint.