Given the increase in the standard, metered rate for NYC taxis, it's not so clear that the metered rate would be cheaper than the new flat rate between Manhattan and JFK, depending on:

1. where in Manhattan one is coming from or going to; and
2. how much slow or stopped traffic one encounters on the trip.

The new metered rate is $3.00 for the "drop of the flag," and 70¢ per one-fifth of a mile or 60 seconds in slow or stopped traffic.