Ask a Pilot: Which NYC Airport is Best – LGA, JFK, or EWR? Here’s the Expert Take

As a NYC-based pilot, I’m often asked which airport—LGA, JFK, or EWR—is the best option for flying in or out of New York City, and let me say, the answer is more complicated than most travelers think. When you’re looking to escape the stress and confusion that come with choosing the right airport, knowing where you’re coming from and headed makes all the difference.

JFK might be more modern, but it can be tricky. LGA has improved a lot, yet EWR might still be easier for some, depending on location and time of day. As a commercial airline pilot, I’m required to work from all 3 airports, and my personal experience with commuting, delays, and terminals gives me a unique perspective. I frequently find myself spending many hours navigating between them—sometimes it’s a breeze, sometimes not.

The cost of time and comfort adds up, especially when juggling schedules with flight attendants and tight turnarounds. Trust me, I’ve seen every corner of this city’s aviation system. Whether you’re a visitor heading to the Big Apple, or a local planning your next getaway, I’ll help you find the way to a more stress-free travel experience. That’s what I aim to make possible, not just for passengers, but for others in the aviation community, too.

Overview of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

When it comes to airports in New York, JFK stands out as a favorite for many travelers, especially because of the TWA Hotel. The rooftop pool there offers a stunning view of the airport, making it a unique and iconic place to relax before or after a flight.

JFK provides an overall luxury and comfort experience with its high-end amenities, making it an excellent choice for travelers who value both style and convenience.

The vintage design of the TWA Hotel blends with the modern facilities, offering a leisure experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re staying for a long layover or just passing through, the elegance and exclusive services at JFK make it a top destination for those flying in and out of New York.

Advantages of JFK Airport

• JFK is highly efficient at handling large amounts of traffic, ensuring smooth operations even during peak travel times.

• With a wide variety of flights and connections, JFK offers excellent options for both domestic and international travel.

• The TWA Hotel at JFK is a magnificent spot, blending vintage design with modern luxury, making it a unique destination worth visiting.

• Travelers enjoy high-end lounges, restaurants, and amenities that provide the ultimate comfort and relaxation.

• JFK is easily accessible, offering a central location in New York, making it a perfect gateway for travelers heading to the city or other destinations.

Pros	Details
Efficiency	Handles large amounts of traffic, ensuring smooth operations even at peak times.
Variety of Flights	Offers great options for both domestic and international travel.
TWA Hotel	A unique destination blending vintage design with modern luxury.
Premium Amenities	High-end lounges, restaurants, and other luxurious amenities.
Accessibility	Conveniently located with easy access to New York and surrounding areas.

Drawbacks of JFK Airport

• JFK can be expensive when it comes to transportation and fees, making the overall cost of getting to and from the airport higher than expected.

• The terminals at JFK are long, so expect to walk a considerable distance from one section to another, which can be tiring for travelers.

• While JFK is in a great location in New York, it can be difficult to access during peak hours due to the high traffic and commute time.

Cons	Details
High Costs	Transportation and fees can make JFK one of the more expensive airports to use.
Walking Distance	Terminals are long, requiring considerable walking.
Traffic and Congestion	Peak hours often bring heavy traffic and extended commute times, which can be a challenge.

JFK is a major airport in New York City, but it does have some drawbacks. With hundreds of daily flights, it faces heavy traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours. Since it’s located in one of the busiest airspace areas, operations can be delayed due to the high demand.

Air traffic control is constantly busy, making it harder to manage schedules, leading to long waits and delays. The urban environment around the airport can also contribute to longer commutes and a more crowded experience, especially during busy travel periods.

While JFK has the best track record for handling airline traffic, it still has its challenges. The airport’s runway layout is well-designed and optimized for efficiency, but during peak hours, traffic can still cause delays.

Despite the airport’s ability to handle both international and domestic service, the sheer capacity of flights can lead to congestion and affect operations. JFK’s airspace is among the busiest, and although it is efficient, sometimes flights may experience slight disruptions or delays due to the busy environment.

The airlines operating at JFK perform well, but managing the high volume of traffic can still be a challenge.
One thing that can be frustrating at JFK is when you hear a public announcement saying you’re number 50 while taxiing out.

It’s a reminder that waiting on the tarmac at this busy airport can be a common experience. While the waiting time might feel long, it’s important to keep in mind that you could be stuck at another airport, 15 miles away, and spend even more time waiting. The high congestion and capacity at JFK contribute to delays, which can affect travel time and operations.

Still, with proper delay management in place, it’s a smooth experience once you’re on your way, but the wait can certainly test your patience.

At JFK, one of the cons is that while security lines aren’t typically long, it can still be a bit of a hassle. The CLEAR system, however, helps to speed up the security process, and it’s a good option to consider, especially since it offers a free trial and is sometimes included with credit cards from certain banks

Another downside is that rental cars are available, but if you want to get to them quickly, you’ll need to take the AirTrain to the car rental center. Despite that, it’s still one of the most convenient airports in terms of access.

While waiting, you can stop by the TWA Hotel in Terminal 5, which offers a fascinating look at aviation history, with a rooftop pool that overlooks the runways and even an old Constellation plane.

All these amenities certainly make for a unique travel experience, but it’s important to note that the layout of the airport might require a bit more walking between terminals.

A smooth flight often starts with managing the journey to the airport.”
– Anonymous Pilot

Getting to JFK: Transportation Options

When you’re heading to JFK, the Van Wyck Parkway can either be your best friend or your worst nightmare, depending on traffic. With the ongoing $2 billion subway extension at LGA, JFK is often the easiest and sometimes cheapest airport to get to from New York City.

Although it’s a more convenient option, it can still be a hassle with potential traffic and delays. The fastest ways to reach JFK from the city include using the subway or driving, but both come with their own challenges.

Getting to the airport from the city can sometimes feel like a long commute, especially with congestion along the roadways, but it remains a central destination for travelers.

Fastest Route: Driving to JFK

If you’re aiming for a quick trip to JFK, driving is usually your best bet, though it can vary depending on traffic conditions. If you’re coming from downtown New York City, it may take 30 to 45 minutes under normal conditions, but rush hour or accidents could stretch it to 2 hours.

The Van Wyck Parkway and Belt Parkway are your main routes, but be ready for potential delays, even late at night, because New York City never sleeps. Tolls are also a factor when traveling from New Jersey; it will cost you $16 to cross the state line, but the return toll is $15.

Parking at JFK: Rates and Tips

Parking at JFK can be expensive, with rates for the economy lot starting at $18 and going up to $39 for a spot in the parking garage.. However, it’s still more reasonable compared to other airports in NYC. To save on parking fees, you can consider off-brand parking lots that typically charge $7-10 per day, though they can fill up quickly.

It’s a good idea to book ahead to secure a spot and make the most of cost-saving options. Parking options can vary in availability, but planning ahead helps avoid the stress of finding a spot at the last minute.

Most Convenient Option: Taxi, Uber, or Lyft

When it comes to getting to JFK, your best option for convenience might be Uber or Lyft. Depending on the surge, these rides can start as low as $35, but during peak times, the cost can shoot up to $120

A Pro Tip for those coming from outside the city is that cabs to JFK have a flat rate of $52 (with surcharges of $4.50 when busy), which can often end up being cheaper than an Uber or Lyft ride.

Additionally, many taxis know the best shortcuts and can navigate traffic more efficiently, making them a great option when the line for taxis at the airport isn’t too long.

However, if you’re looking for pure convenience and speed, Uber and Lyft are generally the most efficient outside of rush hour, offering a fast, door-to-door service. Interestingly,

Uber Helicopters can sometimes even be cheaper than a normal Uber, which is no joke if you’re in a hurry to catch a flight! The overall experience from Manhattan to JFK airport can range from 25-180 minutes depending on traffic, but no matter the route, Uber and Lyft definitely offer the most convenient choice.

Budget-Friendly Option: Public Transportation

If you’re looking to keep costs low while flying into JFK and heading into NYC, public transit is by far the most economical route, even if it takes a bit longer. I’ve personally used the AirTrain dozens of times—it’s quick, reliable, and links directly from your terminal to Jamaica or Howard Beach Stations, where you can catch the subway, Metro, or bus depending on your destination in the NYC area.

While the system runs smoothly, the downside is the fee: the AirTrain costs $7.75 per person, and you’ll need to pay an extra $1 surcharge for the MTA Transit card. That’s before you even cover the subway fare, but altogether, the trip averages about an hour if you’re not stuck with too much luggage or hitting rush hour.

For those going from JFK to NJ, expect an added $12 for the New Jersey Coast Line, and plan for a roughly 2 hours ride into New York—not overly complex, but definitely a hassle.

I remember when the airporter or NYC Express bus made this easier between JFK, Manhattan, and EWR, but Covid put an end to that. Now, I always check Google Maps or use a transit app like NYC Transit or Citymapper to stay updated on the best routes

Just remember, everything works in reversed when heading back to the airport.

2) Overview of LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LGA has come a long way from its reputation as the clown of NYC airports. Thanks to new terminals and improved food options, it’s now a hero in the eyes of many travelers. I recently flew through LGA, and the experience was a pleasant surprise compared to the past.

The upgrades are noticeable, and with more dining choices, it makes the wait much more enjoyable. Even though Delta News Hub once referred to the airport as a bit of a joke, today, it’s clear the transformation is real.

If you haven’t been to LGA in a while, it’s worth checking out the changes, especially given how the airport is now regarded as a positive part of the NYC travel experience. Photo credit: Delta News Hub (CC BY2.0).

Advantages of LaGuardia Airport

• LGA has gorgeous and new terminals, making it feel worlds apart from the other airports in NYC.

• One of the best things about LGA is its food options, including fresh acai bowls in the Delta terminal.

• LGA is known for being the most convenient airport for getting to New York City quickly.

Pros	Details
Modern Terminals	The newly built terminals offer a pleasant and comfortable experience.
Food Options	More diverse dining choices, including fresh acai bowls and gourmet food options.
Convenience	The nearest airport to New York City, helping to minimize commute time.

Drawbacks of LaGuardia Airport

• LGA is often impacted by severe delays due to weather or staffing issues, which can make your trip unpredictable.

• If you rely on public transportation, you’ll have to take a bus, which adds time and can be inconvenient.

• The toughest part of LGA is the difficulty to switch terminals, especially since there’s no AirTrain until next year.

Cons	Details
Delays	Severe weather or staffing issues often lead to unpredictable delays.
Limited Public Transit	Currently, only buses serve the airport, which can be inconvenient for travelers with heavy luggage.
Terminal Changes	Switching terminals is tough, especially with ongoing construction.

While LaGuardia has transformed from the red-headed stepchild of New York area airports to one of the nicest, it still has its drawbacks. Due to ongoing reconstruction efforts (boosted by Covid-reduced passenger traffic), the terminals may look gorgeous with superb views of Flushing Bay, but there are still delays.

Limited space means that when airline traffic increases or weather turns bad, LGA gets backed up. There’s also the issue of parking, which can be tough due to the construction.

Even though it’s the closest to NYC, during rush hour, it can still take 45-60 minutes to reach. While the addition of metro lines will eventually make for a consistent 30 minute transit, for now, LGA still faces challenges in its runways, taxiway, and throughput capacity, which can be a major hassle compared to EWR.

The best airports adapt and evolve to meet the needs of their passengers.”
– Anonymous Aviation Expert

Getting to LaGuardia: Transportation Options

When heading to LGA, your only option for public transportation right now is buses. The ride can be a bit cramped, and you might struggle to find room for your suitcases if you pack heavy. It’s not the most convenient option, so plan ahead if you have a lot of luggage.

If you want to know more about the details, there’s a Photo from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of the State of New York that shows the route, marked under CC BY2.0.

Fastest Way to Reach LGA: Ride-Hailing or Driving

If you want the quickest way to get to LGA, driving or taking an Uber, Lyft, or taxi is your best bet. Depending on traffic, the travel time can range from 15 minutes to over an hour, with prices between $35 and $100.

It’s much faster than taking a bus or metro, and when you’re in a rush, it’s definitely the most convenient choice. However, keep in mind that the traffic can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.

Parking at LGA: Costs and Convenience

Parking at LGA can be pretty steep, with a $39 per day charge for the lot right next to the terminal. The upside is that you can simply walk across to the terminal, which is super convenient.

However, if you’re looking for cheaper parking, some providers offer alternatives like valet-parking, but you’ll have to take a shuttle to the airport. Unfortunately, neither option is truly optimal if you’re trying to avoid paying a premium.

Most Affordable Option: Public Transit to LGA

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get to LGA, public transportation is your best bet. You’ll need to hop on a bus from the terminal, which costs only $2.75 per person. However, this option can be a bit inconvenient since the buses often don’t have enough space for luggage and are usually very full.

Before you board, make sure to grab a MetroCard at the terminal, and use an app like Google Maps to help guide you. The trip will take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and the bus schedule.

3) Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): A Closer Look

When it comes to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), I have to admit, it’s my least favorite of the 3 major airports in New York. The airport itself isn’t bad per se, but there are just so many factors that make it a bit of a hassle.

The picture speaks for itself when you think about the experience — long lines, confusing layout, and sometimes disorganized terminals. While it’s a convenient option for those living in New Jersey, it doesn’t offer the same ease as JFK or LGA.

I’ve had my fair share of flights from Newark, and while some people love it, it’s just not a top choice for me. The delays are often ridiculous, and the airport doesn’t feel particularly welcoming or well-maintained. If you’re looking for a smooth travel experience, there are definitely better options.

What Makes EWR a Convenient Option

• EWR is highly convenient for travelers living in New Jersey or the south, offering quicker access to New York with great transport options like the AirTrain, making it ideal for commuters looking for smooth and efficient travel.

• The location of EWR provides an easy and efficient connection to New York with a well-designed system that ensures a speedy ride to the terminal, making it a great choice for those seeking convenient service and proximity to the city.

Pros	Details
Less Congestion	Typically calmer and less crowded than JFK, offering a more relaxed travel experience..
Great Flight Options	Plenty of domestic and international flights available.
Good Accessibility	Easy access from both NYC and New Jersey.

Why Travelers Find EWR Convenient

• EWR is often plagued with significant delays, caused by poor ATC staffing and the layout of the airport, which leads to severe congestion and air traffic management issues. This results in long wait times and delays that affect air travel.

• The terminals at EWR, except for terminal C, are considered the worst out of the three major airports. Passengers often experience poor quality in the design and facilities, making the travelers’ experience uncomfortable due to congestion, discomfort, and outdated amenities.

• EWR is also the most expensive airport to get to from the city, with high taxi and transportation fees. The costliest routes result in an expensive journey, making access to the airport less affordable for many travelers.

Cons	Details
Distance from NYC	While it’s a solid airport choice, it’s located slightly farther from central NYC than LGA.
Public Transportation	Some public transit routes to the airport can be less straightforward compared to JFK.

As someone who’s been flying commercial routes in and out of New York for years, I’ve seen firsthand how EWR can be a tough option for many travelers, especially when compared to LGA or JFK. While Newark might seem quicker for those living in New Jersey or south of the city, it’s typically not the best choice for more central New York passengers.

The fact is, while roads to the airport might appear faster, the tolls—like the ridiculous $16 charge just to get across Staten Island—can add up quick. On top of that, public transportation is slower and less direct than the options from JFK or LGA, which means more hassle for travelers.

Once you actually get there, Terminal A and B are often horrific, even with some improved features over the years, while Terminal C is slightly nicer, but outside of that, nothing feels particularly special. Delays at Newark are constantly reported, not just due to weather, but also because of its confusing layout, low Air Traffic Control staffing, and general disorganization in the National Airspace System.

You’ll see these logged as coded reasons like “winds/weather/staffing” on the FAA website, which just means nobody wants to work there or fly through it. And that’s not just hearsay—I’ve personally had to fly out of EWR on a perfectly clear day, only to be hit with a delay due to staffing.

It’s always something. So, while EWR may appear to be a huge convenience on paper, it’s simply not the airport I’d pick if I had any other option in the New York area.

Sometimes the road less traveled leads to the most peaceful destination.”
– Anonymous Traveler

Traveling to Newark: What You Need to Know

Getting to Newark can be a bit of a mixed bag depending on where you’re coming from. Newark is located just off the NJ Turnpike, making it accessible for those living to the south of it. However, for anyone living to the north, getting to Newark can be a pain.

The area around the Turnpike isn’t exactly photogenic, so it’s not the most scenic route either. Despite that, it remains a convenient choice for many, especially if you’re coming from New Jersey or south of the city.

Quickest Way to EWR: Uber, Lyft, or Taxi (25-90 mins, $70-200)

Getting to EWR can take varying amounts of time, depending largely on traffic and timing. Uber, Lyft, or even a taxi could get you to the airport in as little as 25 minutes if you hit the right time, but it can take up to 90 minutes during rush hour.

The price for these rides usually ranges from $70-200, with surges making it even more expensive at certain times of the day. If you’re lucky and the timing is right, you might find a cheaper fare, but normally, you can expect something closer to $70-80.

The downside to taking a ride to EWR is that, no matter how convenient it may seem, the cost and time can vary, so it’s wise to plan ahead.

Affordable Parking Options at EWR

Parking in EWR is a more affordable option compared to its siblings. It won’t cost you an arm and a leg, and you have various options to choose from depending on your price range. Whether you’re looking for something fancy or simply need a place to park, there’s something for everyone. One of the main strong points of EWR is the variety in parking choices, so you can easily save money.

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can always find off-brand parking lots or even park at nearby hotels. Some hotels even include a week of parking if you stay the night before your trip, so don’t forget to check with your hotel before you head out.

Most Budget-Friendly Option: Public Transportation to EWR (40-80 mins, $15+)

If you’re flying into EWR (Newark) and are trying to save on costs, the public transportation option is definitely the way to go. From NYC, head over to Penn Station, which is quite convenient if you’re already in Manhattan. Once there, you can hop on the NJ Coast Line, a straightforward way to travel, and then switch to the AirTrain that takes you directly to your terminal.

The whole journey typically takes between 40 minutes to 80 minutes, depending on your timing and connections. For just $15 per person, it’s the most budget-friendly choice.

However, if you’re someone who values comfort or time over cost, this can feel like an expensive and slightly inconvenient option, especially when considering the potential hassle of navigating stations. Still, if you’re not in a rush and want to keep costs low, it’s definitely the most affordable choice.

Alternative NYC Area Airports: Westchester County (HPN) & Long Island MacArthur (ISP)

When it comes to flying in and out of New York City, LGA, JFK, and EWR are the big names, but don’t overlook the alternative airports like Westchester County (HPN) and Long Island MacArthur (ISP). For those who live a bit further from the city, these airports can offer decent alternatives to the major ones.

Westchester County Airport (HPN), located in White Plains, is particularly popular for private flights and charter flights. While the small terminal can feel a bit crowded at times, it’s still a great option for those flying on Delta, American, or United.

Located about 30 miles north of New York City, HPN isn’t the most convenient, but if you’re willing to make the drive, it can save you time when flying domestically, especially with shorter security lines. As for Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) in Islip, it’s a great option for Long Islanders, particularly for those who live further out on the island or even closer to the Hamptons.

The airport’s smaller footprint means security lines tend to be shorter, and flying from here offers an overall easier experience. Flights from Southwest, Frontier, and American are commonly available, making it an ideal choice for those looking for budget-friendly options.

For travelers searching for flight deals from airlines like JetBlue or Allegiant, Westchester County and Islip MacArthur might just be the perfect alternatives to the larger NYC-area airports.

Discovering Alternative Airports Near NYC

When traveling to or from New York City, many travelers are familiar with the busy and often congested airports like JFK and LaGuardia. However, there are other airports nearby that can offer a more relaxed and efficient travel experience.

These alternative airports, such as Westchester County Airport (HPN) and Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP), serve as convenient options for those looking to avoid the hassle of NYC’s major airports. With less traffic, shorter security lines, and more affordable parking, these airports provide a great way to reduce travel stress while still offering access to a variety of domestic and international destinations.

Westchester County Airport (HPN): A Convenient Choice for Travelers

Westchester County Airport (HPN), located just 33 miles north of Manhattan, is a popular choice for travelers who want to avoid the busy atmosphere of the city’s larger airports. HPN provides a wide range of domestic flights through airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United..

The airport’s smaller size means fewer crowds and shorter wait times at security. Additionally, it’s easily accessible by car, train, and even shuttle services from the city, making it a practical choice for those living in or visiting the northern suburbs of New York.

Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP): A Peaceful Alternative to the Crowds

Located in Islip, Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) is another fantastic alternative to the busy NYC airports. Though it’s located about 50 miles from Manhattan, ISP offers a much more laid-back airport experience. The airport is served by airlines such as Southwest, Frontier, and American Airlines, providing an array of domestic flight options.

ISP’s smaller terminal means less congestion, making it a convenient choice for travelers looking for a quick and easy departure. It’s particularly favored by those flying to destinations on Long Island or heading out to the Hamptons.

Saving on Costs and Enhancing Convenience at HPN and ISP

Flying out of alternative airports like Westchester County Airport (HPN) and Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) can often be more cost-effective compared to the larger airports in New York City. These airports tend to have lower parking fees and fewer hidden costs, such as long-term parking and excessive taxi fares.

Additionally, the less crowded nature of these airports means that travelers can often enjoy quicker check-in processes and faster security clearance. For those looking to avoid the chaos of JFK or LaGuardia, HPN and ISP offer a more economical and convenient travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the closest airport to Manhattan?

LaGuardia (LGA) is the nearest airport to Manhattan, typically just 15–30 minutes by car. It’s the fastest option if you’re staying in central New York or nearby boroughs.

Which New York airport is best for international travel?

JFK is the top choice for international flights, offering the widest range of global routes, multiple airline hubs, and smoother customs processing compared to LGA or EWR.

What’s the cheapest airport to fly into in NYC?

Flight prices vary, but Newark (EWR) and JFK often have the best deals. Factor in ground transportation costs too, as they can significantly affect your total travel expenses.

Has LaGuardia Airport improved after renovations?

Absolutely. LaGuardia has undergone major upgrades, including brand-new terminals, modern amenities, and better dining options, making it a much more enjoyable airport than it used to be.

Which airport has the fewest flight delays?

JFK typically handles delays better due to its efficient layout. LaGuardia and Newark experience more frequent delays from weather, air traffic congestion, and staffing challenges during peak periods.

Which NYC airport is easiest to reach by public transit?

JFK is the most transit-friendly, thanks to the AirTrain linking it directly with subways and the LIRR. Newark is more complex, while LaGuardia only offers limited bus service.

What’s the most comfortable airport in NYC?

JFK wins for comfort, with premium lounges, upscale dining, and the TWA Hotel offering a unique, stylish space to relax—perfect for longer layovers or international departures.

Is Newark a good option for flying into NYC?

Newark is convenient if you’re coming from New Jersey, but it’s less ideal due to frequent delays, older terminals (except Terminal C), and more expensive transportation into Manhattan.

Which NYC airport is most ideal for short business trips?

LaGuardia is best for quick trips. Its location near Manhattan and faster check-in times make it ideal for short domestic flights and tight business schedules.

How early should I get to NYC airports before my flight?

Plan to arrive at the airport two hours before your domestic flight. For international flights, give yourself at least 3 hours—especially at JFK—to navigate lines, traffic, and security.

Conclusion

As a pilot who commutes weekly to and from various NYC-area airports, I can confidently say that JFK is undoubtedly NYC’s best airport to fly into, fly from, or even visit. While your favorite airport might vary based on where you live, public transportation options, or your airline status, JFK stands out as the clear winner. It offers the best combination of decent transit times, cost, and consistency when it comes to handling delays and irregular ops. With the greatest number of options for both international and domestic flying, it remains the obvious choice for most travelers. The perfect blend of these factors makes JFK a reliable and efficient airport, ideal for anyone traveling in and out of New York City. A special shout-out to the stunning Photo by Anthony Quintano under CC BY 2.0, which captures the essence of this vibrant hub.