JFK vs. LaGuardia vs. Newark – Which NYC Airport Should You Choose?
The airport you select in New York City can be a big difference when travelling. Three main airports serve the city: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark Liberty International (EWR). All of them have their own advantages based on where you are going, which airline you want to use, and which area of NYC you are in. Whereas JFK has an international presence, LaGuardia has been significantly refurbished in the domestic business, and Newark is doing well with New Jersey and downtown Manhattan travelers. To make a wise choice, we shall compare all the three airports based on distance, airlines, amenities, and convenience.
Quick Comparison of NYC’s Three Major Airports
| Feature | JFK International Airport | LaGuardia Airport | Newark Liberty International Airport |
| Location | Queens, NYC | Queens, NYC | Newark, New Jersey |
| Distance from Manhattan | ~15 miles | ~8 miles | ~16 miles |
| Main Airlines | JetBlue, Delta, American, British Airways | Delta, American, Southwest | United Airlines, Air Canada, Lufthansa |
| Type of Flights | Mostly international | Mostly domestic | Domestic & international |
| Public Transport Access | AirTrain + Subway | Bus + Subway | AirTrain + NJ Transit |
| Average Taxi Fare to Manhattan | $70 (flat rate) | $45–$55 | $75–$85 |
| Airport Facilities | Lounges, Duty-Free, Dining, Sleep Pods | New terminals, lounges, fast security | Lounges, shopping, multiple parking zones |
| Travel Time to Midtown (Approx.) | 50–60 mins | 30–40 mins | 45–55 mins |
Which Airport Should You Choose?
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK):
JFK is excellent in a foreign travel. It provides services to almost all destinations around the world, and has an excellent airport experience with high end facilities such as luxury lounges, fine restaurants and direct AirTrain and subway services. Delays are however a common occurrence owing to high traffic. Select JFK in the case of international flights, or airlines that have international routes.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA):
Recent remodelling of LaGuardia has made it a modern day traveler friendly airport. It fits well in domestic and short-range flights. Being nearest to Manhattan, it provides the shortest way to travel and modernized terminals that have increased food and check-in rates. It however, has few international routes. LGA will best suit business travelers or short ventures within the U.S.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR):Newark is New Jersey technically but nevertheless, serves New York metro efficiently. It is a terminal of the United Airlines and has easy accessibility to downtown Manchester through NJ Transit. EWR is a good alternative to JFK in domestic and international flights particularly to the people in western Manhattan or New Jersey.
