Originally Posted by
Analise
The E sometimes was crowded; other times the car we were in was empty. For a woman to be alone in a car which is nearly empty is taking an unnecessary risk. However I always felt safe in the subway at that hour with my husband. You want to advocate for Andrea to go alone, hey, go for it. I, on the other hand, would recommend it at such an early hour.
It's hit or miss regarding the speed of going through security in the morning.
You point is valid on riding an empty cart at 5am. However, no one is recommending she board a train at 5am to 6am. She can safely board NYC Transit at 6:30 to as late at 7am (on express) and make it to through security at JFK with minimum 45 minutes to spare. She will be in the midst of rush hour so empty subway carts while possible is unlikely.
Anyone riding a subway at ANY hour should try to sit in the car with the conductor/driver (which is the middle or first cart on the subway). Simple NYC common sense. If you run to catch the train and end up in an empty cart - at the next stop switch to the next cart.
Enjoy your trip/holiday.