JFK Airport’s Terminal has become a refuge for the homeless, raising safety concerns as law enforcement takes a cautious stance.

Homelessness at JFK Airport: A Growing Concern

JFK Airport, one of the busiest gateways in the United States, is grappling with an influx of homeless individuals seeking refuge in its terminals. The heated walkway between the AirTrain and Terminal 5 has become a popular spot, especially during the harsh winter months. Travelers and airport staff have reported a noticeable increase, with estimates of 5-10 people taking shelter daily. The situation is complicated by the fact that these individuals access the area via public transit, highlighting the ongoing homelessness crisis in New York City.

Safety Concerns and Police Response

The presence of homeless individuals has led to heightened safety concerns, particularly among female flight attendants who work early or late shifts. Despite these concerns, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has limited its interventions to non-violent situations. This approach is due to public space rules that restrict the removal of individuals unless violence occurs. Daily sweeps are conducted with assistance from the non-profit Urban Pathways, but the lack of specific success rates in outreach efforts has left the issue unresolved.

Impact of NYC’s Homelessness Surge

The surge in homelessness at JFK Airport is reflective of broader trends in New York City, where homelessness among single adults has risen by 117% over the past decade. The city’s shelter system is overwhelmed, with long wait times and limited capacity forcing many to seek alternative refuges such as airports. The situation at JFK mirrors patterns observed in other transit hubs where warmth and safety from street exposure are paramount concerns. As the cold winter months continue, the strain on both the airport and the homeless population is likely to persist.

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NYC’s homeless are filling JFK Airport

Video report from FOX 5 NY