Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
December departures from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) see higher passenger volumes around Christmas and New Year's. Expect increased frequency on popular travel days, more one-stop connections through Atlanta (ATL) and Charlotte (CLT), and occasional seasonal nonstop services. For travelers originating in nearby cities like Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, and Huntsville, BHM remains a regional hub for holiday flights to New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C. Book early, check flight schedules for holiday peak dates (Dec 20–28 and Dec 31–Jan 2), and use fare alerts for December deals.
In December, the best ways to reach Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) are driving (on-site parking or short-term lots), ride-hailing services, and airport shuttles from downtown Birmingham. Winter holiday traffic can increase travel times, so allow 45–90 minutes from central Birmingham and nearby cities like Montgomery or Tuscaloosa. Book rides or reserve airport parking in advance to secure December holiday travel blackout dates.
For domestic flights from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) in December, arrive at least 90 minutes before departure during normal periods and 2–2.5 hours during peak holiday days (mid-December through early January). TSA wait times can spike on winter holiday travel days, so use TSA PreCheck if available to speed security. Check your airline’s recommended arrival time the week of travel for the most accurate guidance.
Direct and nonstop options from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) vary seasonally; in many Decembers airlines like JetBlue or American operate nonstop or seasonal direct services, but most travelers will find one-stop options via Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT). Search 'BHM to JFK nonstop December' and set price alerts to catch limited direct flight deals. If you need a nonstop, book earlier as holiday seats fill fast.
Baggage policies depend on the airline, fare class, and route. Basic economy fares often exclude checked bags while main cabin tickets usually include one free checked bag on many legacy carriers. For December holiday travel, expect surcharges for overweight or extra bags and consider pre-purchasing checked baggage online to save. Always verify current baggage allowances with your carrier before packing.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) offers short-term, long-term, and economy parking with shuttle service to terminals; rates can increase during December holidays and lots can fill quickly. Reserve on-airport parking if available or compare off-airport parking lots that provide shuttle service to BHM to secure a lower rate. For holiday weeks, pre-booking is recommended to avoid last-minute price hikes and lot closures.
Many airport services, restaurants, and shops at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) operate reduced hours on major holidays like Christmas and New Year's Day, though core services remain available. If you depend on a lounge or a specific restaurant, check their holiday hours online before you travel. Pack essentials in your carry-on in case vendor hours are limited during peak December travel.
Arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) means navigating holiday crowds, potential snow or rain delays, and busy ground transport options. Terminal assignments vary by carrier—JetBlue often uses Terminal 5, while other carriers use Terminals 1, 4, or 8—so verify your terminal before arrival. Popular nearby destinations served from JFK include Manhattan/New York City, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island; many travelers also connect onward to Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. during the holiday season. Allow extra time for baggage and consider pre-booking an airport transfer or checking LIRR/AirTrain schedules.
Arrivals at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December can include winter weather delays, especially for inbound flights from the Southeast. Expect busy terminals, high ground-transport demand, and possible longer waits for baggage. Plan for additional transit time to Manhattan or Long Island because of holiday crowds and peak taxi/ride-share usage.
In December, the fastest public transit route from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Manhattan is the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), or AirTrain to Howard Beach and a subway transfer. Taxis have a flat fare (plus tolls and tip) to Manhattan and are convenient when traveling with luggage during winter. Ride-hailing apps and pre-booked airport shuttles are also widely used during holiday travel—book in advance when possible.
December travel on the BHM to JFK route aligns with major holiday events in both cities. In New York City, don't miss the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, Bryant Park Winter Village, Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, and New Year's Eve in Times Square (tickets and access are limited). In Birmingham, holiday attractions include the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Holiday Lights, Vulcan Park holiday events, and local festive markets. Plan travel around marquee event dates, secure show tickets in advance, and allow extra airport transfer time for large crowds.
The best time to fly from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December is early in the month (first two weeks) and mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid premium holiday pricing and crowds. Morning departures reduce the risk of weather-related delays and missed connections, while late-night red-eyes can offer cheaper fares but may be subject to cancellations. Avoid peak holiday travel windows from Dec 20–28 and Dec 31–Jan 2 when fares and delays spike.
Choosing between direct and connecting flights from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December depends on priorities: nonstop provides speed and fewer disruption points but is often more expensive and limited seasonally; connecting flights through hubs like Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), or Philadelphia (PHL) increase options and can reduce cost at the expense of longer travel time. During December holidays, nonstop seats sell out quickly—if price is critical, a reliable one-stop itinerary booked early may offer the best balance.
Airlines operating the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) market in December include legacy carriers and low-cost operators. JetBlue is a top option for a direct New York experience when nonstop/seasonal service is available and offers a more comfortable economy product. Delta often provides reliable one-stop connections via Atlanta (ATL) with strong on-time performance, while American Airlines routes via Charlotte (CLT) or Philadelphia (PHL) and may have seasonal direct service. Low-cost carriers may offer lower base fares but charge for extras like checked baggage and seat assignments.
December travel between Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) requires planning for colder conditions in New York, possible snow and delays, and heavier passenger volumes during holidays. Pack warm layers, a compact umbrella, and travel essentials in your carry-on. Allow extra connection time when routing through major hubs, enroll in TSA PreCheck for faster security at BHM, and check terminal and baggage policies ahead of departure. Monitor weather forecasts for the Northeast—storms can rapidly affect JFK operations in December.
Typical nonstop flight time from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Most December itineraries are one-stop via hubs such as Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT), adding 1–3 hours for layovers. Morning flights are often more reliable in winter; evening flights are more likely to be affected by upstream weather or connection delays. Check airline schedules for seasonal nonstop service and expect increased frequency around early December and limited availability around peak holidays.
To find cheap flights from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December, search early (6–8 weeks ahead) and use flexible dates. Primary tactics include setting fare alerts for 'BHM to JFK December', comparing fares mid-week (Tuesdays/Wednesdays), and considering one-stop itineraries via Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT) for lower prices. Low-cost carriers and seasonal sales often post December deals; use incognito browsing, mix-and-match airlines, and consider nearby departure/arrival airport combos if your schedule allows.
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Book your economy class flight from Birmingham (BHM) to New York (JFK)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
Starting from $533
Book your economy class flight from Birmingham (BHM) to New York (JFK)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
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Flights arriving from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are domestic, so passengers do not clear U.S. customs and immigration upon arrival. However, plan for baggage claim and ground transport procedures; December holiday crowds can slow baggage delivery and taxi queues. For international connections onward from JFK, follow airline instructions for international check-in and security.
Flights from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) may arrive at different terminals depending on the airline—JetBlue commonly uses Terminal 5, American uses Terminals 8 or 4 depending on routing, and some connecting carriers use Terminals 1 or 4. Confirm your arrival terminal on your ticket or airline app before landing, and note that walking between terminals can take time during peak December crowds.
To minimize weather disruption risk when arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in December, choose earlier-season travel dates (early December), book flights with morning departure times, and consider connecting through more reliable hubs. Sign up for airline delay alerts and have flexible plans for ground transport and accommodations. If travel is critical, purchase refundable fares or travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations.
