Q10 Bus Line to Subways
It is possible to ride two city bus lines from JFK airport to connect with the subway system and avoid the $8 AirTrain charge. The main bus stop is located in front of Terminal 5 which can be reached by the JFK Train without charge. Take the Q10 bus for an easy conection to several Queens subway lines. The image below is from the Q10 schedule on the MTA web site.
The B15 bus route goes between the airport and New Lots subway station in Brooklyn. Both routes are shown on the subway map.
METRO Card
The buses require exact change (no bills accepted) or a METRO card to pay the fare. A METRO card allows you to make a free transfer to the subway.