New York City’s JFK AirTrain, an important transportation hub to and from the city, is undergoing significant upgrades. Jamaica Station, a key stop along the route, is set to introduce new self-service vending machines for purchasing physical OMNY cards. Recently, construction workers removed all old-style MetroCard machines, signaling a shift towards contactless payment for AirTrain tickets and ensuring convenience for travelers who may not utilize mobile payment methods.
This update was first hinted at in a social media post, announcing the imminent installation of new OMNY self-service card vending machines. The addition of these machines aims to bridge a gap during the transition period to the OMNY system, allowing passengers without smartphones or contactless credit cards to seamlessly use the new system. These self-service kiosks will enable individuals to purchase and top up physical OMNY cards with cash or credit cards, serving as a crucial alternative for international travelers, seniors, and those unfamiliar with digital wallets. It eliminates the need to stand in long lines to purchase a potentially disposable old-style MetroCard for just a single AirTrain trip.
Currently, both Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station on the AirTrain route accept contactless payments for entry and exit. Travelers can pay the $8.50 fare using their contactless bank cards, smartphones, or OMNY cards, with the option to pay for up to four passengers. For first-time users of the OMNY system, there may be a brief wait of around a minute before the card can be swiped again.
Regarding the transition plan for existing MetroCards, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has stated that as long as there is sufficient balance on the card, pre-loaded MetroCards can still be temporarily used at current turnstiles, although they will no longer be sold at the stations.
However, questions linger about how discounted AirTrain passes will continue under the OMNY system and what fare benefits frequent riders can expect in the future. The Port Authority is currently devising solutions to address these concerns.