Where to Find Fresh Drinking Water in JFK Airport | Free Water Refill Locations

You can find fresh drinking water in JFK Airport throughout all major terminals. Most terminals now include touchless refill stations and traditional drinking fountains beyond security checkpoints. John F. Kennedy International Airport has upgraded many of its older fountains to filtered refill systems, making it easier for travelers to stay hydrated for free. Whether you’re flying Delta, American, or JetBlue, you’ll find accessible refill options near gates, lounges, and food courts.

2. Why It Helps to Know Where to Find Water in JFK

JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the United States, with millions of travelers passing through every year. Buying bottled water at an airport can be expensive, and it creates unnecessary plastic waste. Knowing where to find fresh drinking water in JFK Airport allows passengers to refill reusable bottles without paying for single-use options.

JFK has joined a growing list of major airports investing in sustainable hydration systems. These refill stations offer filtered, chilled water and are designed for contactless use. The setup is particularly convenient for travelers waiting on long-haul international flights, where hydration plays an important role in comfort and health.

3. Where to Find Fresh Drinking Water in JFK Airport

John F. Kennedy International Airport has six passenger terminals (Terminals 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8 are currently in operation, while Terminal 6 is under construction). Each terminal offers at least one accessible location for free drinking water and most have multiple bottle refill points.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves several international airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, and Japan Airlines. Refill stations are located near Gate 3 by the restrooms and another between Gates 6 and 7 near the food court. These stations are standard Elkay Smart Water units that display the number of bottles saved from landfill.

Travelers can also find traditional water fountains close to the Lufthansa Lounge entrance and beside Gate 9.

Terminal 4

Terminal 4, operated largely by Delta and international carriers, is one of the most modern and spacious terminals at JFK. You’ll find smart refill stations on the departures level near Gates B22, B30, and B42. Additional fountains are located in the retail corridor near Shake Shack and Buffalo Wild Wings.

There is also a refill unit near the Delta Sky Club, just before the elevators leading up to the lounge. All refill units here provide filtered water and are designed for reusable bottles of all sizes.

Terminal 5

Terminal 5 is JetBlue’s main hub and one of the most traveler-friendly areas in JFK. It features multiple Hydration Stations throughout the concourse. You’ll find refill points near Gate 12, across from Dunkin’, and next to Gate 24 by the seating area.

These refill systems are touchless and include LED indicators showing filter status. Traditional fountains are also located near the men’s restroom close to Gate 18.

Terminal 7

Terminal 7 serves British Airways and several smaller carriers. The layout is more compact, but there are still a few convenient spots for refilling water bottles. Look for a refill station near Gate 5 and another adjacent to the Hudson News stand.

This terminal includes a mix of older-style fountains and newer refill units. If you need a quick fill before boarding, the lounge staff can also assist with providing tap water.

Terminal 8

Terminal 8 primarily serves American Airlines and is divided into two concourses: Concourse B and Concourse C. Travelers will find fresh drinking water refill stations by Gates 31 and 47. Additional fountains are positioned near Gate 14 close to Starbucks.

The newer refill units are labeled “Filtered Water” and are part of JFK’s sustainability upgrades. Most provide cold, filtered water and can accommodate large bottles.

4. Bringing an Empty Bottle Through Security

Yes, you can bring an empty water bottle through airport security at JFK. TSA rules allow empty bottles in your carry-on or personal bag. After clearing security, head to one of the refill or drinking fountain stations listed above.

It’s recommended to pack a lightweight, reusable bottle before your trip. Many travelers prefer stainless steel bottles or collapsible plastic ones that take up less space. If you don’t have one, airport shops like Hudson News and Tech on the Go sell refillable bottles for around $10–$20.

Bringing your own bottle not only saves money but also reduces single-use plastic waste.

5. Are the Refill Stations Filtered?

Yes. Most of the refill units at JFK are filtered and refrigerated. The newer Elkay Smart Stations use replaceable carbon filters that remove chlorine taste and odors, providing cleaner-tasting water. You’ll notice these machines include counters that show how many plastic bottles have been saved.

Standard drinking fountains are still available in older areas of the terminals, but they may not have built-in filters. However, all tap water at JFK comes from New York City’s municipal supply, which consistently meets or exceeds federal drinking water standards. The water is considered safe to drink from any source within the airport.

6. Terminal-Specific Quick Guide
Terminal Location Type Filtered Notes
T1 Gate 3 Smart Refill Yes Near restrooms
T1 Gate 6–7 Smart Refill Yes Close to food court
T4 Gate B22 Smart Refill Yes Touchless, filtered
T4 Retail area Fountain No Across from Shake Shack
T5 Gate 12 Smart Refill Yes JetBlue concourse
T5 Gate 24 Smart Refill Yes LED filter display
T7 Gate 5 Fountain No Older style unit
T8 Gate 31 Smart Refill Yes Cold filtered water
T8 Gate 47 Smart Refill Yes Near seating area
7. Tips for Travelers

Fill after security: All refill points are beyond TSA checkpoints, so always carry your bottle empty through screening.

Use wide-mouth bottles: These work better with older fountains that lack clearance.

Check for filter lights: Many smart refill stations have indicators that turn red when the filter needs replacing. Choose stations with green filter lights when possible.

Avoid long lines: Refill stations can get busy during boarding times, especially around JetBlue and Delta gates. Try to refill between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when foot traffic is lower.

Bring a small towel: If you’re refilling multiple bottles or children’s containers, having a small cloth helps prevent spills.

8. Environmental Benefits

The installation of refill stations at JFK is part of a larger initiative by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to cut down on single-use plastic waste. Each refill station saves thousands of plastic bottles every month, contributing to the airport’s overall sustainability goals.

By using refill stations, travelers help reduce waste and conserve resources. JFK’s new terminal projects, including the upcoming Terminal 6, plan to feature an even greater number of refill stations integrated with passenger amenities.

Choosing to refill instead of buying bottled water also reduces the carbon footprint associated with plastic production and transport.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drink tap water at JFK Airport?
Yes. New York City’s water is among the cleanest in the U.S., and the airport’s systems meet all safety standards.

Are refill stations free to use?
Yes, all refill stations and fountains are free of charge.

Can I refill a metal bottle?
Yes, stainless steel bottles work perfectly with both standard and touchless refill stations.

Do all terminals have refill stations?
Yes, every operational terminal has at least one refill or fountain area.

Where can I find the newest refill stations?
Terminals 4, 5, and 8 currently have the most modern units, offering touchless and filtered systems.

10. Summary

Travelers looking for fresh drinking water in JFK Airport will find plenty of free, filtered refill stations throughout all major terminals. Whether you’re departing on a domestic JetBlue flight or heading abroad from Terminal 1, there are accessible hydration points near most gates.

Using refill stations instead of buying bottled water is both economical and environmentally friendly. JFK’s ongoing upgrades ensure that passengers can stay hydrated easily, safely, and sustainably throughout their journey.