Musings: AirTrain tough ride for seniors
Passengers on the AirTrain, which runs from the LIRR's Jamaica station to Kennedy Airport. Credit: Corey Sipkin
While Kennedy Airport is under construction, many Long Islanders may consider the JFK AirTrain a good way to get to the airport. As a senior, though, I cannot recommend it for those of a certain age.
The miserable conditions at the Long Island Rail Road's Jamaica station are daunting.
On the trains, the overhead racks for luggage can make some, maybe most seniors feel helpless. To lift a suitcase onto these racks is dangerous for lots of seniors and other passengers. If you can manage to lift a heavy suitcase, it could fall on the head of the passenger seated below.
The only other option is to use a seat for the suitcase. Just try doing this during rush hour, and you'll find it impossible because no seats are available.
At least the $8.75 fare, reflecting a recent small increase for the short ride from Jamaica, has a discount for seniors if they apply online.
All in all, to my way of thinking, the AirTrain is an unfortunate choice to travel to Kennedy Airport.
Elliot Schwartz, Holbrook
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