John F Kennedy Airport (JFK) is located in Queens and is about 15 miles from Manhattan, the business hub of New York. It is one of the three major international airports serving New York City along with few smaller airports. It was originally known as Idlewild Airport and after the assssination of President John F. Kennedy it was renamed after him.
Busiest Airport in New York
It is the busiest airport among all New York Airports. It is spanned over 5200 acres and is the largest in the New York. It serves as a major gateway for international travel to and from North America and so it is the busiest international airport in North America. More than 90 local and international airlines operate from the airport with flights on all six inhabited continents. It has the second longest runway in United States i.e. The Bay Runway and it was considered as a backup space shuttle landing spot.
History of John F Kennedy Airport
John F Kennedy Airport was build over a Golf Course known as Idlewild Golf Course. Its construction was started in 1943 and it was officially opened to flights in 1948. In order to meet the increase in flight and cargo operations it underwent several expansions and developments in 1960s and 1970s.
Cargo Operations at John F Kennedy Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport is also one of the major hub for air cargo. In 2021, a contract was signed between the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to modernize the cargo facility with an estimated budget of $145 million. This new Cargo facility will cover an area of 350,000 square feet. Also Worldwide Flight Service (WFS) will increase cargo capacity at JFK by 20% in early 2025 with opening of new terminal. All this is being done because JFK International Airport is one of the biggest international Cargo Stations.
Modernization Efforts
JFK Airport has modernized its operations and infrastructure to create better traveling experience for its visitors. It is constantly undergoing renovations and upgrades to terminals. JFK airport is one of the few airports in the world that has utilized modern technology for its operations and security to increase efficiency and ease for travelers.
Cradle of Aviation Museum
This museum is located on the grounds of JFK Airport and exhibits a wide range of aviation and space exploration. This museum has more than 75 aircraft and spacecraft. It also covers various aspects in development of aircraft both military and civil. The museum also features an IMAX theater that screens films and documentaries related to aviation and aerospace exploration. Throughout the year, the museum hosts special events, lectures, and temporary exhibitions related to aviation history and aerospace technology.
Design Inspiration
John F Kennedy airport is also known as the airport that never sleeps and it is one of the busiest airports in the world. In 1957, SOM designed the former international Arrival’s building but they had to redesign it as it was cramped most of the time and it also became outdated. So it was redesigned in 1990s and it is estimated that it serves more than 7 million passengers yearly now.
Terminal Ownership
John F Kennedy Airport terminals are owned and managed by either single airline or consortium of airlines. Basically the airlines don’t own the terminals rather they own the right to operate those terminals. Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways and American Airlines, emirates and qatar airways are few example of airlines operating from John F Kennedy airport.
NASA and the ARMY
John F Kennedy airport has a special reserved runway for air force one, the plane in use by President of the united states of America. This area is off limits for other passengers except for army. NASA also has agreement with Airport’s authorities to use the second longest runway in USA as backup landing space for space shuttles.
When you are in the New York City a rapid transport system is all you need to travel within the city. New York has all kinds of options from Buses, a subway network, taxis, ride sharing services and bikes as well.
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