Navigating the three major airports serving NYC – JFK, LGA, and EWR – can seem daunting. Consider your final destination within the city, your airline preference (especially for hubs/alliances), whether you're flying internationally or domestically, and your budget for ground transportation. Each airport offers different advantages.
Find the Best Flights to New York City
Ready to experience the Big Apple? Your NYC adventure starts with finding the right flight. At NYC Compass, we offer the tools to compare deals and choose the best option for your trip. New York is served by three major airports – JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR) – each offering unique advantages. Whether planning months ahead or seeking a spontaneous getaway, use our real-time search to find the perfect balance of price and convenience.
Navigating NYC Flights & Airports
NYC Accommodation Tips By Season
Winter Flights
Winter flights require careful planning. Expect peak demand and fares around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's – book these months well in advance. January and February often bring lower fares post-holidays, but be prepared for potential significant weather delays (snow/ice). Always check airline cancellation/rebooking policies thoroughly beforehand. Flying mid-week during these off-peak winter months can yield significant savings if your dates are flexible, offering good value.
Summer Flights
Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season, meaning high demand and typically higher flight prices, especially on weekends. Book several months ahead for better fares and seat selection. While weather is generally more reliable for flying than winter, airports are busiest. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday/Wednesday) for potentially lower fares. More direct flight options may be available due to increased carrier schedules during this popular travel period.
Spring & Fall Flights
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) often represent the sweet spot for NYC flights. You'll generally find more moderate fares compared to peak summer or major holidays. The weather is typically pleasant, reducing the risk of significant delays. These shoulder seasons offer a great balance of good availability and reasonable cost. Book a couple of months out, but keep an eye out for deals, especially if avoiding specific event weekends (like the NYC Marathon in early Nov).
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Frequently Asked About Flying to NYC
Which NYC airport is 'best'?
There's no single “best” airport; it depends on your priorities. LGA is closest to Manhattan but has fewer flight options and limited public transit. JFK offers the most flight choices (especially international) and good transit links, but is further out. EWR has an efficient train connection to Midtown West and is often less chaotic than JFK. Always compare prices and total travel time (flight + ground transport) for all three airports (search “NYC”).
How long does immigration and customs take at NYC airports?
Processing times vary significantly based on airport, terminal, time of arrival, and passenger volume. Budget 30-90+ minutes for immigration and customs at JFK (Terminal 4 can be particularly busy). Newark (EWR) might be slightly faster, averaging 20-60+ minutes. LGA handles fewer international flights, so processing is usually quickest (15-45 minutes). Having Global Entry or using Mobile Passport Control can drastically reduce wait times for eligible travelers.
Are overnight ('redeye') flights common to NYC?
Yes, especially from the US West Coast (LAX, SFO, SEA, LAS) and internationally (Europe, South America, Middle East). These flights typically land at JFK or EWR between 5 AM and 7 AM. Domestically, redeye flights from the Midwest or East Coast are rare due to shorter flight times. Be prepared for potential tiredness upon arrival and consider booking accommodations that allow early check-in or luggage storage.
What are recommended minimum connection times at NYC airports?
Minimum connection times (MCT) vary by airline and terminal, but general recommendations are:
- Domestic to Domestic (same terminal): 60-90 minutes.
- Domestic to Domestic (changing terminals): 90-120 minutes (JFK requires AirTrain between terminals).
- Domestic to International: 2-3 hours.
- International to Domestic (clearing customs): 3+ hours (you'll need to clear immigration, claim bags, clear customs, re-check bags, and go through security again).
Which airlines have the biggest presence at NYC airports?
The dominant airlines vary by airport:
- JFK: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways have the largest operations. Many major international carriers also focus their NYC service here.
- LGA: Primarily served by Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, with significant operations from Southwest Airlines and United Airlines as well. Focuses mainly on domestic routes.
- EWR: United Airlines operates a major hub here, dominating the flight schedules. JetBlue, Spirit, and several international carriers also have a notable presence.
Virtually every major global airline serves at least one of the three NYC airports.