New York City is served by three major airports:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK),
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

JFK, located in Queens, is the busiest, offering extensive international and domestic flights and acting as a major hub for several airlines. LaGuardia, also in Queens, is primarily focused on domestic flights and known for its proximity to Manhattan, making it convenient for quick trips. Newark Liberty, located in New Jersey, serves as a significant international gateway and offers a mix of domestic and international flights. Together, these airports form one of the world’s busiest and most important air transportation networks, connecting millions of travelers to global destinations.

In New York City we have multiple options for reaching the city center, each offering varying degrees of convenience, speed, and cost.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK):

• AirTrain and Subway: The AirTrain JFK connects all terminals to the Howard Beach and Jamaica stations, where travelers can transfer to the A, E, J, and Z subway lines. The journey to Manhattan typically takes about 60-75 minutes and costs around $10.75.
• Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): From Jamaica Station, travelers can catch the LIRR to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, significantly reducing travel time to about 35 minutes. The combined fare is approximately $15-$20 during peak hours.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis offer a flat fare of $70 to Manhattan, plus tolls and tips, while ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide variable pricing based on demand, usually ranging from $60-$100.
• Shuttle Services and Buses: Shared shuttle services like Go Airlink NYC and NYC Airporter provide door-to-door service, with prices starting around $20. The NYC Express Bus connects JFK to Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, and Port Authority Bus Terminal for about $19 one-way.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA):

• MTA Buses and Subway: M60 SBS, Q70 SBS, and Q47 buses connect LGA to subway stations in Queens, offering access to lines such as the 7, E, F, M, and R. The total journey to Manhattan can take 45-60 minutes, costing $2.90 for the bus plus a $2.90 subway fare.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis to Manhattan cost approximately $40-$60, including tolls and tips, while ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft vary, typically ranging from $30-$60.
• Shuttle Services: Options like the NYC Express Bus provide direct service to Midtown Manhattan for about $16 one-way.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):

• AirTrain and NJ Transit/Amtrak: The AirTrain Newark links the terminals to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station, where travelers can transfer to NJ Transit or Amtrak trains to Penn Station in Manhattan. The combined journey takes about 30-45 minutes and costs $15-$30.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis to Manhattan range from $50-$70, including tolls and tips, while ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically cost between $40-$80.
• Shuttle Services and Buses: Services such as Go Airlink NYC and SuperShuttle offer shared rides to Manhattan starting at $20. The Newark Airport Express bus provides direct service to Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal for around $18 one-way.

1. Which airport should I choose for a domestic flight within the United States?

• LaGuardia Airport (LGA) primarily handles domestic flights and is a good choice for U.S. travel. JFK and Newark also offer numerous domestic flights.

2. Are there any airport lounges available for travelers?

• Yes, all three airports have various lounges. JFK has multiple lounges including those from major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and British Airways. Newark also has several lounges, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club. LaGuardia offers lounges such as Delta Sky Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.

3. Can I find rental car services at these airports?

• Yes, all three airports have multiple rental car services available. Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget operate at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.

4. Is there free Wi-Fi available at the airports?

• Yes, free Wi-Fi is available at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. Travelers can stay connected throughout the terminals.

5. What are some dining and shopping options at these airports?

• JFK: Offers a wide variety of dining options ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. There are also numerous shopping options, including duty-free shops, luxury brands, and convenience stores.
• LaGuardia: Recently renovated, LaGuardia now boasts an improved selection of restaurants, cafes, and retail stores, providing a better passenger experience.
• Newark: Features numerous dining and shopping options, including both quick bites and full-service restaurants, along with a variety of retail stores.

6. Are there facilities for travelers with disabilities?

• Yes, all three airports are equipped with facilities to assist travelers with disabilities. This includes accessible restrooms, ramps, elevators, designated parking spaces, and assistance services. It’s advisable to contact the airport or airline in advance to arrange any specific needs.

7. What is the best way to get from one airport to another in New York City?

• The quickest way to travel between the airports is usually by taxi or ride-sharing services, though it can be expensive. There are also shuttle services and public transportation options, but these can take significantly longer.

8. Is there luggage storage available at the airports?

• JFK: Offers luggage storage services in several terminals.
• LaGuardia: Does not currently offer luggage storage services.
• Newark: Luggage storage services are available in certain terminals.

9. Are there any hotels near the airports?

• Yes, there are numerous hotels near each airport:
  • JFK: Options include the TWA Hotel, Hilton New York JFK Airport, and Crowne Plaza JFK Airport.
  • LaGuardia: Nearby hotels include LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, Hampton Inn New York - LaGuardia Airport, and Marriott New York LaGuardia Airport.
  • Newark: Close options include Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott, Hilton Newark Airport, and Holiday Inn Newark Airport.

10. How early should I arrive at the airport before my flight?

• For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arriving 3 hours prior is advisable. Due to the busy nature of NYC airports, giving yourself extra time can help avoid stress.