New York City’s Airports: A Guide

New York City is one of the world’s busiest cities and a top tourist destination - a true metropolis. Getting in and out of this bustling city often means flying, especially for internationals. New York City is served by three major airports, all with their own pros and cons. A good knowledge of these airports - can be crucial to selecting the best airport for your destination and making sure you get the best service whenever you fly.The three airports that serve the greater New York City area are: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark International Airport (EWR).

John F. Kennedy International Airport

Van Wyck Expressway, Jamaica, NY 11430 - (718) 244-4444

JFK located in Queens at the south end of the Van Wyck Expressway is primarily an international airport, handling flights in and out of the U.S. It’s also in the unique position of having a one mile “international zone,” run by the United Nations rather than the U.S. government.The airport itself is very spread out, and the different terminals can be confusing. The newest terminal, Terminal 8, hosts American Airlines and has better transport links than others. Because of its proximity, you’d be wise to choose JFK if you live in Brooklyn, Queens, or mid-town Manhattan.There are some definite downsides to JFK. Immigration lines can be very long – perhaps cause by a mix of the large number of international visitors, and a slightly outdated system. Because of this, those in the know often fly into Newark instead, and then commute into New York. Waiting for two hours after you’ve just gotten off a plane is no laughing matter.Grabbing a cab can also be a bit of a hassle, with the loading areas crowded and at times confusing. Still, if you ask for directions and have a bit of patience – and perhaps some New York spirit – there are plenty of taxis around.Transportation to and from JFKDriving to JFK from NYC can take between 30 minutes to an hour, and there are toll roads to be dealt with. A taxi is often the best way – between JFK and Manhattan there’s a flat rate of $52, not including tolls and tips. Make sure you flag a taxi in one of the designated areas, or ask an official to point you in the right direction.The New York Airport Service Express Bus can be a fast and cost effective way to get between JFK and Grand Central Terminal. With fares as low as $10 one way, and the service running every half an hour or so, this can be a great choice for those with more luggage  to reduce the hassle. The journey can take about 45 minutes, with multiple stops en route. The JFK Airport Guide also has useful information on the various bus routes available for getting between JFK and NYC.To use the subway, take the A train to Howard Beach. From there take the free shuttle bus to your terminal. From Queens, you can take the Q10 bus to Lefferts Boulevard or to the Kew Gardens subway stop (E, F, and R lines). The Q3 to the 179 Jamaica (F and R lines) also works. Just remember that if you have larger quantities of luggage this may not be the best option for you!

La Guardia Airport

10205 Ditmars Boulevard  Flushing, NY 11371 - (718) 533-3400

LaGuardia, named after one of New York’s most famous mayors, Fiorello La Guardia, is used almost exclusively for domestic flights into and out of New York. If you’re flying to the city from within the U.S., you’ll likely be landing here. It’s the airport closest to the city and is also located in Queens on the Grand Central Parkway.Because of its status as primarily a domestic airport, LGA is smaller than JFK – which can be good for navigating your way around – and has generally faster times for luggage retrieval and  security checks.  There are four terminals, A through D, connected by handy buses and walkways.  If you’re flying domestic, immigration rules don’t apply, which can speed things up a lot.Transportation to and from LaGuardiaTo drive to LGA from midtown Manhattan generally takes between 15 – 30 minutes with tolls and depending on the route, but not usually more than 45 minutes. There’s no flat fee for taxi rides, but you can expect them to cost around $30. The Express Bus from Grand Central Terminal also runs to LGA, and as with JFK, the fees can be as low as $10.If you’re heading into the city from LGA, the M60 bus from the airport can drop you off at 116th and Broadway in front of the gates of Columbia University. Or you can take the Q33 bus to Roosevelt Avenue-Jackson Heights and then catch the E or F trains into Manhattan. The Q33 also goes to 74th Street and Broadway in Jackson Heights Queens where you can catch the #7 train heading into Manhattan.

Newark International Airport

1 Brewster Road  Newark, NJ 07114 - (973) 961-6000

Newark has three terminals – A, B, and the newer Terminal C. Terminal A has no immigration facilities, and so acts as the domestic flights terminal.  Crowding can be an issue at Newark, even though it remains less crowded than JFK. In 2012, a $350 million project has upgraded Terminal B with international departures on the upper level, international arrivals and domestic departures on the mid level, and domestic arrivals and baggage claim on the lower level. This enabled the airport to handle over 35 million passengers in 2013.Transportation to and from NewarkThe Newark Airport Express bus service runs every fifteen minutes between Manhattan and EWR. It costs just $15 one way, and is a fast and efficient way to get between Manhattan and Newark Airport. It picks up from various locations in the city, and generally takes about 45 minutes to complete the journey. Tickets aren’t available from the driver, but can be bought online instead.The AirTrain is another great way of getting to and from Newark Airport. Running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, it connects EWR with NJ Transit rail and bus services. Connections can be made to Philadelphia as well as Manhattan, the airline terminals, rental car facilities, hotel shuttles, and central parking lots. The AirTrain also connects with JFK.  Within the airports, the AirTrain is free to ride. If connecting with Amtrak or NJ Transit lines you will need to purchase a ticket. The final cost of your journey depends on where you’re heading. For full information, see their website.With all these airports, it’s important to remember to check the suggested times of arrival from your airline. Allowing plenty of time to travel in the often congested streets of NYC is crucial – and always check your travel routes beforehand as subway and bus routes are subject to closure and changes. Still, JFK, LGA and EWR are modern, well supplied airports that happily handle millions of customers every year, and flying to and from New York City has never been easier. Article updated: December 9. 2014