When I visited New York a couple of months ago, I was shocked at how much Uber and Lyft charge, especially for trips to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Take a look at this screenshot of my Uber X fare from the Javits Center to JFK. Without a tip, the total came to $156.54. Ouch.
So when I heard that Uber was expanding their Uber Shuttle service to and from JFK for $10, I was all ears. Of course, being the savvy company that Uber is, this price is only available for a limited time (through April 30). After that, starting May 1st, the fare will increase to $25, taxes included. But even with the price bump, this shuttle service still offers an affordable and convenient alternative to the hefty ride-sharing fares.
What Is Uber Shuttle?
If you’re not familiar with Uber Shuttle, it’s a fixed-route service with set schedules between designated pickup and drop-off points. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a ride to the airport. Remember, you’ll need to make a reservation before boarding the shuttle and you can book up to 7 days in advance for up to four people.
Uber Shuttle Routes to JFK
Here’s a breakdown of Uber Shuttle’s pick-up and drop-off locations between JFK and Manhattan, Brooklyn and beyond.
JFK Terminal 4 to Midtown Manhattan
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Stop 1: JFK Airport Terminal 4 Arrivals (Arrival level – Far right exit door)
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Stop 2: Grand Central (42nd St & Lex Avenue, next to Hyatt Hotel)
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Stop 3: Port Authority (42nd St & 8th Ave)
JFK Terminal 4 to Brooklyn & Downtown Manhattan
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Stop 1: JFK Airport Terminal 4 Arrivals (Arrival level – Section C4 of the Passenger Pick-Up Area)
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Stop 2: Downtown Brooklyn – Atlantic Terminal (Hanson PI and Ashland PI, in front of Apple Store)
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Stop 3: Downtown Manhattan – Chinatown (Corner of Canal St and Lafayette St)
JFK Terminal 5 to Midtown Manhattan
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Stop 1: JFK Airport Terminal 5 Arrivals (Arrival level Door 5)
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Stop 2: Grand Central (42nd St entrance next to Hyatt Hotel)
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Stop 3: Port Authority (42nd St & 8th Ave)
JFK Terminal 5 to Brooklyn & Downtown Manhattan
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Stop 1: JFK Airport Terminal 5 Arrivals (Arrival level Door 5)
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Stop 2: Downtown Brooklyn – Atlantic Terminal (Hanson PI and Ashland PI, in front of Apple Store)
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Stop 3: Downtown Manhattan – Chinatown (Corner of Canal St and Lafayette St)
How Uber Shuttle Works
If you want to give Uber Shuttle a try, here’s how it works:
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Request: Select your pickup and drop-off locations in the Uber app and choose the Shuttle option. You’ll see the fare and pickup time, and then you can reserve up to 4 seats in advance.
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Get Picked Up: Track your shuttle’s location in real-time via the Uber app. Make sure to arrive at your designated pickup spot at least 5 minutes early. Your driver will wait up to 2 minutes past your scheduled pickup time.
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Ride: Check in by scanning the QR code in your Uber app when you board the shuttle.
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Hop Off: You’ll be dropped off at your chosen stop, and the Uber app will guide you to your final destination with walking directions.
Pricing and Payment
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How is the fare calculated? Uber Shuttle fares are based on route distance and the number of seats you reserve. Prices are fixed and do not fluctuate due to surge pricing.
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How can I pay? All payments are processed through the Uber app, so no cash is required.
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Can I ride with a friend or family member? Yes! You can reserve up to 4 seats in advance. Every rider aged 2 and older needs a ticket and must be seated with a seat belt. One rider under age 2 can ride for free with a guardian. Only service animals are allowed on the shuttle.
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What luggage is allowed? Each rider can bring one personal item (which must fit on their lap or under their seat) and one piece of luggage (carry-on or checked bag) weighing up to 50 pounds (22.5 kilograms).
A Convenient, Affordable Option for JFK Travel
If you’ve ever faced the high prices of ride-sharing services, especially to JFK, you know how expensive it can get. Uber Shuttle offers an alternative to the usual airport transportation, and for $10, it’s a no-brainer for travelers on a budget. But remember, this limited-time pricing ends on April 30.
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