I take the "E" train all the time out to Sutphin Avenue to connect to JFK on the AIRTRAIN. It is safe and fast.

Some practical suggestions: get a cash value Metrocard at the kiosk before the exit turnstile from the AIRTRAIN. At least $7, but I would go for $14 or more so that two visits to the kiosk are not required.

After exiting the AIRTRAIN turnstile, walk toward Sutphin Avenue (the glass wall directly ahead of you), but turn left before the escalators. Doors lead onto a concourse above the Long Island Rail Road tracks. Cross the concourse to elevators on the other side. Take these elevators to the bottom stop -- the subway concourse, where you use the same Metrocard to enter the subway turnstile. The "E" train is one level below you. Take the "E" train, rear car, into Manhattan.

You will stop (express daytime stops only) at Jamaica Van Wyck; Kew Gardens; Forest Hills; Jackson Heights; Queens Plaza; Long Island City; and into Manhattan at 53/ Lex.

Total time would be 30-40 minutes.