He's complaining about $251 for an upgraded room - he obviously has no idea of the cost of regular hotel rooms in the area.
Perhaps he was expecting 1962 prices?
He did seem a little overly negative about it, but perhaps not out of line with many people today who seem to be super finicky about things that don't really matter.
I would expect one to understand that, in a place like this - a 1962 vintage terminal, it might not be the same as the Hampton Inn that he seems to find so delightful...
Definitely will plan to stay there when/if I fly into JFK someday. Gots to have a drink whilst on the Connie!