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Kingston Norman Manley Airport KIN Airport Traveler Guide

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iFly.comKINKingston Norman Manley Airport

KIN Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Brian Ozment
Updated:
Key KIN Airport Topics:

Getting to Know KIN Airport

Discover Kingston Norman Manley Airport, your entry to Jamaica's vibrant capital. This guide simplifies your journey, offering updates on flights, terminals, and more. Unique for its picturesque runway approach over the harbor, it enhances your travel experience.

Find everything from parking to dining in our concise guide. Navigate KIN effortlessly, making your trip memorable.

Explore more airports with the Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.

iFly Tip: Navigate your way through the airport faster with our check-in tips.

Kingston Airport has one terminal building with two levels. The ground level is used for arrivals and the upper level is used for departures. The airport has 14 gates in total, with gates 1-5 located on the west side of the terminal and gates 6-14 located on the east side of the terminal.

Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest use gates on the east side of the terminal, while airlines such as Air Canada, British Airways, and Caribbean Airlines use gates on the west side of the terminal.

Inside the terminal, there are several food and beverage options, including fast food chains and sit-down restaurants. There are also duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and newsstands for travelers to browse before their flight.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

KIN has a single terminal building that houses both international and domestic flights. The terminal is well-organized and easy to navigate, with clear signage and helpful staff to assist passengers. The walking distance between the gates and the baggage claim area is short, making it convenient for travelers.

If you need to transfer to another flight, you will not need to change terminals at KIN Airport. However, if you have a layover or need to leave the airport for any reason, there are several transportation options available. Taxis and rental cars are readily available outside the terminal building, and there are also shuttle buses that connect the airport to nearby hotels and attractions. The airport also has a bus station nearby, where you can catch a bus to other parts of Jamaica.

Tips from KIN Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Kingston Norman Manley Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from KIN-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying out of KIN, remember that the gates are split between the east and west sides. Airlines like JetBlue and Delta are on the east side, so if you're flying with them, head straight there after check-in to save time." — Omar B., Portmore, Jamaica, December 2023

"The signage at KIN is pretty clear, but if you're ever unsure, the airport staff are super helpful. They can point you in the right direction if you need assistance finding your gate." — Lisa M., Spanish Town, Jamaica, January 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The Knutsford Express is a reliable option if you want a comfortable ride to Kingston's city center. It's a bit pricier than the public buses but worth it for the convenience and air conditioning." — David R., Kingston, Jamaica, March 2024

"For budget travelers, the public buses are a great choice. They’re affordable and run frequently, but be prepared for a bit of a walk to the pickup area outside the terminal." — Maria S., Mandeville, Jamaica, May 2024

Parking

"The short-term parking is perfect if you're just dropping someone off or picking them up. It's close to the terminal, and you won't have to walk far." — Anthony J., Kingston, Jamaica, February 2024

"If you're looking for a cheaper alternative, off-airport parking lots are a great option. They usually offer shuttle services to the terminal, which is very convenient." — Natalie H., Old Harbour, Jamaica, April 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss out on grabbing a bite at Island Deli before your flight. Their Jamaican sandwiches are a must-try, especially if you're in a hurry." — Michael T., Kingston, Jamaica, June 2024

"Club Kingston is a fantastic spot to relax if you have a bit of time before your flight. The food is excellent, and it’s a nice way to enjoy some local cuisine in a comfortable setting." — Fiona L., Portmore, Jamaica, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the flight displays as soon as you enter the terminal. They provide real-time updates and can save you from unnecessary stress if there are any changes." — Carl W., Spanish Town, Jamaica, July 2024

"Download your airline's app to get instant notifications about your flight. It's super handy for staying updated on any delays or gate changes." — Sophia K., Kingston, Jamaica, September 2024

iFly Tip: Be aware of airline-specific baggage cutoff times to avoid delays.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Kingston Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for extended periods. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times and move them immediately after passengers have been picked up or dropped off.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located near the airport entrance. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up. This helps to alleviate traffic congestion at the terminal curbside and ensures a smoother flow of traffic in and out of the airport.

Parking Facilities & Options

KIN offers several parking options for travelers. There are both short-term and long-term parking lots available, located within walking distance of the terminal. The airport also offers covered parking garages for added protection from the elements.

If you are waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the airport where you can park for free until your passenger arrives and is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located close to the terminal for easy access.

Off-airport parking is a great option for travelers looking for a more economical parking solution. There are several off-airport parking lots located near the airport, offering shuttle service to and from the terminal.

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz are available on-site at the airport. The rental car desks are located in the Arrivals Hall. It is advisable to book your car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are readily available with designated drop-off areas located outside of the arrivals terminal. Fares are regulated by the Jamaican government and are based on your destination and the number of passengers. The average fare to Kingston city center is approximately JMD 2,500.
  • Shared Ride Services: For a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Knutsford Express and JUTA Tours are available. Pickup areas are located outside of the arrivals terminal. These services may have restrictions on luggage and may not operate during late-night hours, so it's advisable to check their schedules in advance.
  • Airport Shuttles: Private companies operate airport shuttles, providing a convenient way to reach your destination. Pickup areas are located outside of the arrivals terminal, and fares vary based on your destination. It is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options such as buses and minibusses are available for those looking for an even more affordable option. These services are located outside of the airport and may require some walking to reach the pickup areas. They offer a cost-effective way to get to your destination, with fares starting at around JMD 100 for a one-way trip to Kingston city center.

iFly Tip: Learn about the strategic importance of airline hubs worldwide.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be an exciting yet exhausting experience. One of the key factors to ensure a smooth journey is finding the perfect accommodation near your arrival or departure point. From luxury resorts to cozy homestays, there is something for everyone. This guide provides an overview of some of the best hotels near the airport. Whether you are looking for a hotel with a pool to unwind after a long flight, a place with a stunning view to kickstart your vacation, or a comfortable stay with all the necessary amenities, this guide has got you covered. Discover the perfect hotel for your stay by exploring our comprehensive list of Norman Manley Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite, head over to Island Deli for some Jamaican-style sandwiches and snacks. For a more formal dining experience, try out Club Kingston, which offers a range of Jamaican and international cuisine. Both restaurants are located in the Departures area of the airport.

When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. The airport has a duty-free store where you can purchase items such as liquor, tobacco, and perfume. If you're looking for souvenirs, head over to Things Jamaican, which offers a range of locally made crafts and gifts. You can find both the duty-free store and Things Jamaican in the Departures area of the airport.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Kingston Norman Manley Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Kingston Norman Manley Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Kingston Norman Manley Airport features designated children's play areas located in both the departure and arrival areas.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Clinic: In case of a medical emergency, a medical clinic is located in the departures area of the terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at Kingston Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate the display for your airline and flight number to get the latest information.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines offer free apps that can be downloaded to your smartphone. These apps allow you to check your flight status and receive push notifications about any changes to your flight. You can also sign up for text or email alerts to stay informed.

Another option is to check the airline's website directly. Most airlines have a "flight status" or "manage reservations" section on their website where you can enter your flight information and get the latest updates.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at KIN by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Kingston Norman Manley Airport (KIN) is located in Kingston, Jamaica.
  • Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that handles both international and domestic flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue Airways. For a complete list of airlines, visit the KIN Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: There are over 100 daily flights from the airport.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from KIN are Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Toronto, and London.
  • Hub Status: Kingston Norman Manley Airport is a hub for Caribbean Airlines, and also sees significant operations from JetBlue Airways and Delta Air Lines.

Airport History

Kingston Airport, located in Jamaica, has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1936 - The airport was originally named Palisadoes Airport and opened for commercial flights.
  • 1948 - The airport was renamed Kingston Airport in honor of the capital city.
  • 1959 - The airport was expanded and renamed again to Norman Manley International Airport in honor of Jamaica's first Chief Minister.
  • 1969 - The airport terminal was expanded to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.
  • 2000 - The airport underwent a major renovation and expansion project to modernize the facilities and increase capacity.
  • 2019 - The airport celebrated its 80th anniversary and continues to serve as a major hub for air travel in the Caribbean.

Today, KIN is a bustling international airport serving millions of passengers each year. With its rich history and modern facilities, it remains an important gateway to Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Norman Manley International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Kingston Norman Manley Airport Q&A

The terminal has two levels: the ground level for arrivals and the upper level for departures, with a total of 14 gates divided between the east and west sides.
The Knutsford Express and public buses are recommended for affordable transportation to the city center.
Yes, there is a cell-phone waiting area near the airport entrance where drivers can wait for free until passengers are ready for pickup.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, including covered garages and off-airport lots with shuttle services.
Yes, major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz have desks in the Arrivals Hall.
Dining options include Island Deli for quick bites and Club Kingston for a more formal dining experience with local and international cuisine.
Visit the lost and found office located in the arrivals area for assistance with misplaced items.
Use the in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or visit the ifly.com departures page for real-time updates.
The airport provides wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services; notify your airline in advance for assistance.
Yes, there are designated children's play areas in both the departure and arrival sections of the terminal.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport