Whether you're traveling home or making a first-time visit to New York City, arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) may be an exhilarating experience. Here's a quick guide to help you get about when you arrive:
Terminals: Terminals 1 through 8 are the six primary terminals at JFK (Terminal 6 was demolished, and Terminal 8 is significantly larger). Knowing which terminal your flight is arriving at is crucial because different airlines use different portions of each terminal. This information is available on the itinerary for your flight or on the airport website.
Baggage Claim: See the signs directing you to baggage claim after your arrival. Information boards displaying your flight number and the associated baggage carousel can be found there. Watch for your baggage to appear on the carousel if you have checked your luggage. Make sure you're picking up the right bags by checking again.
Customs and Immigration: You must pass through Customs and Border Protection (CBP) if you are arriving on an international airline. This procedure includes showing your passport, responding to a few inquiries, and sometimes disclosing any imported products. US citizens can expedite this process by using automated kiosks. Following your customs clearance, you might be required to turn in your declaration form and possibly go through a follow-up inspection.