If you’re flying in or out of New York City, choosing the right airport can make a big difference in your trip. With three major airports JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark you have options, but each one comes with its own pros, cons, and quirks. This in-depth guide will help you understand what each airport offers, how to get there, what amenities to expect, and which one might be best for your specific needs.
What are NYC’s three major airports?
New York City is one of the busiest travel hubs in the world, served by three main airports:
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Located in southern Queens, JFK is the largest and most internationally connected airport in the city. With over 59 million passengers annually (as of pre-pandemic years), it’s a true global gateway. The airport handles the majority of New York’s long-haul international flights.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Located in northern Queens, LaGuardia is the closest airport to Manhattan and primarily serves domestic flights. It’s known for its convenience to the city and has undergone major renovations in recent years to improve terminals and passenger experience.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Located in Newark, New Jersey, EWR is just across the Hudson River and also handles a mix of domestic and international traffic. It’s a hub for United Airlines and offers access to New Jersey and western parts of NYC.
Together, these three airports manage over 130 million passengers each year and serve as a critical hub for business, tourism, and global connections.
Which airport is closest to Manhattan?
Proximity can be a deciding factor, especially if you’re staying in Midtown or have a tight schedule.
- LaGuardia (LGA) is just about 8 miles from Midtown Manhattan. Without traffic, you can reach the city in 25 to 35 minutes. However, traffic during peak hours can stretch that to 45 minutes or more.
- JFK is around 15 miles from Manhattan. A typical car ride takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. While it’s farther than LGA, it offers better transit options via the subway and Long Island Rail Road.
- Newark (EWR) is roughly 16 miles from Manhattan but can be just as quick as JFK thanks to direct train service from Penn Station.
If you value short travel times and minimal hassle getting to your hotel or meeting, LaGuardia might be the best bet especially for domestic trips.
How do you get to and from each airport?
JFK: Getting to JFK is relatively simple thanks to the AirTrain, which connects with the NYC subway and Long Island Rail Road. This offers a cost-effective and fairly quick route to Midtown. Alternatively, yellow cabs offer a flat-rate of about $70 (including tolls and tip), and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
LaGuardia (LGA): LGA does not have a direct train connection, which can be frustrating. However, MTA buses connect the airport to the subway system. Car services, taxis, and ride-shares are the most popular options. Taxis are metered and usually cost $30–$40 to Manhattan.
Newark (EWR): Newark has a major advantage with its AirTrain linking to NJ Transit. You can reach Midtown Manhattan in about 30–40 minutes for under $15. Taxis are available for around $65–$80, and ride-shares are plentiful.
All three airports are accessible by luxury car services and private chauffeurs. Services like Limo Network Nationwide can streamline your airport experience with door-to-door transportation in comfort and style.
What airlines fly from each airport?
JFK is the busiest of the three and hosts a wide variety of domestic and international airlines. Delta, American, and JetBlue have major operations here, and the airport serves as a key hub for international carriers like British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, and more. JFK is also where you’ll find most long-haul international flights.
LaGuardia (LGA) is primarily used for domestic routes. Delta and American Airlines have large terminals, and you’ll find plenty of short-haul and regional flights. LGA has no customs facilities, so its international service is limited to destinations with U.S. pre-clearance, like Canada.
Newark (EWR) is a hub for United Airlines and offers a healthy mix of domestic and international routes. If you’re flying United, EWR is often the best airport in the NYC area. You’ll find international options to Europe, South America, and Asia.
How do terminal amenities compare?
JFK: With six terminals, JFK offers extensive shopping, dining, and lounge options. Delta’s Terminal 4 and JetBlue’s Terminal 5 are especially modern, with upscale food courts, duty-free shopping, and popular lounges like the Centurion Lounge and Delta Sky Club.
LaGuardia: Once known for being outdated, LGA has transformed thanks to a multi-billion-dollar renovation. The new Terminal B features beautiful architecture, sit-down restaurants, and improved baggage handling. It now ranks among the best mid-size airports in the U.S.
Newark: While some areas of Newark still feel dated, United’s Terminal C has been significantly upgraded with new restaurants, tech-driven ordering systems, and a wide array of shops. Terminals A and B are seeing improvements as part of an ongoing modernization project.
Which airport is best for international travel?
JFK takes the lead here, offering more international flights than any other airport in the region. With direct connections to Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond, JFK is the go-to choice for international travelers.
EWR is also strong for international routes, especially if you’re flying United. However, some travelers prefer JFK for its terminal layout and wider airline selection.
LaGuardia, while convenient, is not built for international travel outside North America.
Which NYC airport is the best overall?
It depends on your needs:
- Traveling internationally? Choose JFK.
- Staying in Manhattan and flying domestic? LGA is quick and efficient.
- Flying United or staying in New Jersey? Newark might be the most convenient.
Each airport has its strengths, and thanks to recent renovations and tech upgrades, you’ll find improved experiences across the board.
Tips for choosing the right airport
- Check flight prices for all three airports sometimes there’s a big difference.
- Consider where you’re staying. JFK and LGA are ideal for Manhattan and Brooklyn; Newark is better for NJ and west-side locations.
- Plan for traffic. Peak hours can significantly affect your travel time.
- Think about your airline preferences some airlines operate mainly from one airport.
- Use a reliable airport transfer service like Limo Network Nationwide to reduce stress and travel in comfort.
Navigating NYC’s airports doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning, each one offers a gateway to your destination whether you’re flying across the country or around the globe. Use this guide to make a smart decision and enjoy a smoother travel experience from start to finish.
