Under New York City’s 2003 Smoke-Free Air Act, smoking of any kind, including traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and other vaping devices, is strictly prohibited in all public areas of JFK International Airport’s passenger terminals, except in designated smoking areas located within liquor bars. However, smoking is permitted only in designated areas located approximately 20 feet away from terminal entrances and exits. This guide provides complete details on the locations of these smoking areas within the terminals, along with operating hours and proper use instructions, ensuring travelers can access them responsibly.
Smoking Laws and Penalties at John F. Kennedy Airport
JFK follows strict smoking regulations in the country due to New York State and New York City Legislation.
Here are the basic rules that every traveler should know:
- Smoking is permitted only in certain areas outside of John F. Kennedy Airport.
- It’s also important to note that these smoking areas do not allow or strictly prohibit e-cigarettes. If passengers are found smoking outside approved areas, they will face heavy fines or other penalties.
- These permitted areas are clearly marked outside airport buildings, allowing smokers to smoke without disturbing others.
Whether you are a smoker looking for a designated place or a non-smoker wanting to avoid such locations, using this information will help you make wise choices when traveling through JFK Airport.
Where Are the JFK Smoking Areas Located?
Smoking is not permitted anywhere at JFK Airport as the terminals are enclosed and serve a large number of passengers. Travellers who choose to smoke may only do so in the airport’s authorized outdoor smoking areas.
The smoking areas at the John F. Kennedy International Airport are mentioned below:
| Terminal | Location |
| Terminal 1 | Belt Parkway, right side |
| Terminal 2 | Van Wyck Expressway, right side |
| Terminal 4 | Grand Central Parkway, left side |
| Terminal 5 | JFK Expressway, right side |
| Terminal 8 | JFK Expressway, left side |
Smoking Guidelines at JFK Airport
In addition to the rules, there are general guidelines for using JFK Airport’s designated smoking areas. Some of these guidelines are listed below:
- Be aware of other people and dispose of your cigarette butt appropriately.
- Avoid spending too much time in the smoking area.
- Do not smoke while waiting in line for transportation.
- Avoid smoking near entrances and windows.
Following these guidelines will help everyone use the smoking areas at JFK Airport comfortably.
Map of Smoking Areas at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The interactive map below shows all permitted smoking zones at JFK Airport, including the names and locations of the designated outdoor smoking areas outside each terminal. This map helps travelers easily identify the nearest smoking area and see the exact distance from their terminal or current location.
Using the information provided in this guide will help travelers easily navigate smoking regulations at John F. Kennedy International Airport. By following the rules and guidelines, smokers can use the designated smoking areas without disturbing others, while non-smokers can avoid smoke-filled areas. Whether you are a frequent traveler or visiting JFK for the first time, keeping this information in mind will help ensure a hassle-free experience at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has designated smoking areas outside the terminals, 25 feet from the entrances.
At JFK Airport, smoking facilities are located close to terminal building entrances and exits. To find the nearest smoking area, you can just ask an airport employee for directions.
If passengers are caught smoking outside designated areas, they will face fines up to $250 or other penalties.
Yes, passengers can use e-cigarettes and other vaping devices only in designated smoking areas.
No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all public areas of JFK International Airport’s passenger terminals, except in designated smoking areas.
