Flying to NYC: 2025 Full Guide to Airports, Transportation, and Travel Tips

Flying to New York City is a thrilling experience, but with three major airports and countless transit options, navigating your arrival can feel overwhelming. Whether you're landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), or Newark (EWR), each offers unique advantages depending on your destination, budget, and travel preferences.

Key Takeaways

• NYC features three major airports: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR). Each offers unique conveniences depending on your destination, budget, and preferences.
• JFK is ideal for international travelers, featuring extensive global connections and modern amenities, with multiple transportation options to Manhattan starting at $7.75.
• LaGuardia is best for domestic flights, offering proximity to Manhattan and Brooklyn, with affordable public transit or quicker taxi/rideshare options.
• Newark balances domestic and international travel needs, often offering slightly cheaper flights. It connects to Manhattan via NJ Transit or shuttle services starting at $17.10.
• Selecting the right luggage and transit options improves your NYC experience. Carry-ons suit quick, budget-friendly trips, while checked baggage is ideal for longer visits.
• Preparation enhances your trip: Choosing the most fitting airport and transit method ensures a smooth arrival and more time to enjoy NYC’s iconic sights and vibrant culture.

Which Airports are in NYC?

New York City features three primary airports handling millions of passengers annually:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Situated in Queens, is a major international hub, offering connections to destinations across the globe. JFK Airport in Queens, New York, serves as an excellent choice for international travelers due to its extensive flight network and state-of-the-art amenities.
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Also in Queens, focuses mainly on domestic routes. With its recent renovations, including Terminal B's world-class facilities, it provides a more seamless and enjoyable traveling experience. LaGuardia is ideal for those flying to NYC from within the US or nearby countries like Canada and Bermuda.
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Located in Newark, New Jersey, is another key airport serving the New York City metro area. With its proximity to Manhattan and efficient transit options, it's a practical choice for both domestic and international travelers.

These three airports offer options tailored to your flight schedule, budget, and convenience, making them pivotal to the experience of flying to NYC.

John F. Kennedy International Airport

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens, New York, is the busiest airport in the city, accommodating over 62 million passengers annually. As a leading international hub, it offers direct flights to global destinations like Buenos Aires, Reykjavik, and Singapore. JFK's Terminal 5 serves as the headquarters for JetBlue, while major airlines like Delta and American also use this airport as a hub. Flying to NYC through JFK connects you to an extensive list of both domestic and international routes.

The airport provides numerous amenities, including lounges for airlines such as Delta, Emirates, and Air France. Dining options range from quick bites like Jikji Café in Terminal 1 to sit-down establishments like Blue Point Brewing Company in Terminal 4. Terminal 5 features Artichoke Basille's Pizza for fans of New York-style pizza. Renovation projects totaling $19 billion aim to modernize existing terminals and add two new ones by 2030, creating an elevated experience for travelers.

Accessibility to nearby accommodations adds convenience. The TWA Hotel, located adjacent to JFK Airport, is a popular choice for overnight stays. For car rentals, services are available directly at the airport, simplifying transit options upon arrival. Positioned 16 miles from Manhattan, it’s ideally located for exploring New York City with multiple transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and public transit.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): AKA “The Airport”

JFK Airport, located in Queens, New York, is the busiest among the three major airports serving New York City. Handling over 62 million passengers annually, this international hub connects NYC to destinations worldwide.

How long does it take to get to JFK from Manhattan?

Reaching JFK from Manhattan depends on your mode of transportation. A taxi or car service ranges from 45 to 90 minutes and costs $70, including taxes and surcharges. Using public transport takes 60 to 90 minutes. The AirTrain combined with the Long Island Rail Road is the fastest route for $12 to $14 off-peak or peak.

How do you get to JFK by subway?

The subway connects to JFK via the AirTrain. Travel on the A train to Howard Beach Station or the E, J, or Z trains to Jamaica Station, transferring there to the AirTrain. Keep in mind the AirTrain leg costs $8.25. If riding the A train, avoid the Lefferts Boulevard-bound option, as it doesn’t connect to the airport.

How much does it cost to get to JFK by subway vs taxi?

Here’s a breakdown of travel costs:

How are JFK’s airport amenities?

JFK offers lounges, dining options, and shopping across its terminals. Terminal 1 features Jikji Café for quick bites, while Terminal 4 boasts Blue Point Brewing Company for sit-down meals. Terminal 5 includes Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. Wi-Fi is free across the airport. Renovations through 2030 continue to modernize the airport for better experiences.

Flight Options at JFK

JFK is a hub for over 70 airlines, including Delta, American, and JetBlue, operating flights to destinations like Reykjavik, Singapore, and Buenos Aires. With international and domestic connections, JFK offers convenient options when flying to NYC or traveling abroad.

LaGuardia (LGA): The Airport You Forgot About

LaGuardia Airport, located in East Elmhurst, Queens, offers convenience for domestic travelers flying to NYC. Despite its smaller size compared to other airport New York City hubs, LGA has undergone significant transformations to improve facilities and passenger experience.

How do you get from LaGuardia to Manhattan or Brooklyn?

Reaching Manhattan or Brooklyn from LGA involves limited public transit but several alternatives. Public buses, including the Q70 and M60 SBS, connect to nearby subway lines for $2.75. These options combine walking and transit transfers, which can be inconvenient with heavy luggage.

For more direct travel, taxis or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide faster access, with designated pickup areas at each terminal. Traffic and ongoing construction near LGA may lead to delays, especially during peak hours. If you're staying in Queens or neighborhoods like Harlem or the Upper West Side, the Q60 bus offers a direct route to LGA.

How much does it cost to get to LGA from Manhattan or Brooklyn?

The cost of traveling to LGA varies based on your choice of transportation:

If budget-friendly options are a priority, the bus-subway combo offers value despite the inconvenience. Rideshare or taxis ensure comfort but come with fluctuating costs.

Flight Options at LGA

LaGuardia focuses on domestic routes but also connects to select international destinations like Canada, Aruba, the Bahamas, and Bermuda. In 2023, eight airlines, including Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest, provided direct connections to cities across the US. Unique to LGA, the Delta Shuttle offers quick access to Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., making it ideal for business travelers.

Local Tip

Be mindful of your terminal when flying out of LGA. The airport's redesign has improved facilities but left it spread out. Walk times between terminals can take up to 15 minutes, with no airport tram or shuttle available. Plan for extra time, especially if switching terminals or dealing with last-minute gate changes.

Newark (EWR) Airport: The Other Other Airport

Flying to NYC often includes considering Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) as a practical alternative to JFK Airport in Queens, New York, and LaGuardia. EWR is located just 14 miles from Manhattan, offering convenient access for both domestic and international travelers.

How do you get to and from Newark Airport by subway or bus?

The NJ Transit system connects Newark Airport Station to Moynihan Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. This includes a 50-minute ride combining the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast lines and the AirTrain Newark. It costs $17.10 for a one-way trip.

Coach USA's Newark Airport Express shuttle bus provides another option. It runs 4:45 am to 2:00 am daily, stopping at Port Authority, Grand Central, and Bryant Park, with a fare of $18 one-way or $30 roundtrip. With minimal traffic, the journey can take as little as an hour. These buses avoid local stops, ensuring a direct and efficient ride.

How much does it cost to get to and from Newark Airport from Manhattan?

Your transportation options to Newark vary in cost and convenience:

Local Tip

Flights to Newark are often slightly cheaper compared to JFK and other NYC airports. However, consider extra toll fees and the notorious traffic when traveling to or from Manhattan. Taxis and rideshares include toll charges, which add another $15–$17 to your fare. Unless you're saving a significant amount on airfare, other options within the New York City airports might offer a more seamless experience.

Can you take the NYC subway to and from the airport?

Using the NYC subway is possible for both JFK and LaGuardia airports, but each requires additional transit connections. While it’s not a direct option for Newark Liberty International Airport, public transit from Newark integrates with regional train systems.

For JFK Airport in Queens, the subway combines with the AirTrain service, making it one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel. The AirTrain connects terminals at JFK to subway lines like the A, E, and J/Z, with fares totaling $7.75 ($2.75 for the subway and $5 for the AirTrain). From Midtown Manhattan, traveling via subway and AirTrain typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

LaGuardia Airport lacks a dedicated subway station, but nearby routes serve its surroundings. The Q70 Select Bus Service links to the 7, E, F, M, and R subway lines for a combined fare of $2.75, taking 45 to 60 minutes to reach Manhattan. You can buy a MetroCard or use contactless payment for both subway and bus fares.

For travelers flying to NYC through Newark Airport, subway access is indirect. The NJ Transit train connects Newark Liberty to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan for $17.10, with a transfer required to reach subway lines. Depending on your destination and timing, this journey may range from 50 to 90 minutes.

Which is the Best Airport to Fly into NYC?

Choosing the best airport in New York City depends on your travel plans, destination, and preferences. The three major options—JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark—each offer unique benefits for travelers flying to NYC.

JFK Airport in Queens, New York: As NYC's premier international airport, JFK handles over 62 million passengers annually, making it the busiest airport in the area. It's ideal if you're on an international trip or staying in Manhattan's eastern or central regions. Located 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan, JFK offers reliable public transit connections, including the AirTrain and Long Island Rail Road, for $12 to $14 and travel times of 60 to 90 minutes. Taxis and rideshares cost approximately $70 but are subject to traffic conditions. With its global flight network, free Wi-Fi, airline lounges, and dining spots like Jikji Café, JFK prioritizes traveler convenience.

LaGuardia Airport in Queens: With its proximity to Manhattan and Brooklyn, LaGuardia is the most convenient for domestic travelers. Airlines such as Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue operate here, offering direct flights within the US and select international locations like Canada and the Bahamas. Transportation to Midtown Manhattan includes the Q70 and M60 buses, which connect to subway lines for $2.75. Rideshare services and taxis provide faster options, ranging from $30 to $45. Its recent renovations have modernized terminals and improved amenities.

Newark Liberty International Airport: Positioned in Newark, New Jersey, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights while often being less congested than JFK. It's 14 miles from Manhattan, and transportation options include the NJ Transit train ($17.10) connecting to Penn Station and an express shuttle bus ($18). Taxis and rideshares range from $70 or more depending on traffic. Newark is a practical choice for travelers staying in Manhattan’s western areas or Lower Manhattan.

If your choice depends on cost, Newark flights tend to be slightly cheaper, though tolls and traffic may add time and expenses. For international travel or layovers, JFK Airport in Queens, New York, is a top choice, while LaGuardia simplifies short domestic trips.

What’s the Best Luggage for NYC?

Choosing the right luggage when flying to NYC can simplify your journey and align with airport-specific policies. For short trips, hand baggage is a convenient option, allowing you to carry two bags free of charge. When departing from JFK Airport in Queens, New York, or any other major airport in New York City, this can save you the hassle of waiting at baggage claim. A lightweight carry-on Backpack facilitates faster transportation through busy terminals like those at JFK.

For longer stays, checked baggage works better. With a 23kg checked bag allowance, you can comfortably pack essentials without worrying about additional fees. This option is ideal if you're navigating JFK, known for large terminal spaces and frequent international connections. Remember, most airlines offer free seat selection 24 hours before departure, which can enhance your overall travel experience.

More Airport Guides

Flying to NYC is an adventure that starts with choosing the right airport to fit your needs. Whether you’re arriving at JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark, understanding your options can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Each airport offers unique benefits, so it’s all about aligning your plans with the best fit.

If you’re planning trips to other cities, exploring airport guides for your next destination can help you navigate transportation, amenities, and travel tips. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring stress-free travel experiences.