Airports In New York: Major International And Domestic Travel Hubs

A view of the Empire State Building from Rockefeller Center in New York City on a day.

Airports in New York cater to domestic and international flights, private aviation, and regional travellers. It is home to the bustling metropolis of New York City and other vibrant regions and is served by a range of significant airports. With airports strategically placed throughout the state, New York ensures easy accessibility for business and leisure travellers. Whether flying into the city for a vacation or travelling across the state, New York’s airports offer various options to suit your needs. Here is a look at the top airports, their locations, airlines operating, and transportation options.

Top 10 Airports In New York

Here are the top airports in New York, offering a range of services from commercial flights to private aviation.

1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

An Aerial view of an airport with runways and terminals, one of the airports in New York.

Photo: Sharon Hahn Darlin / Wikimedia Commons

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is a major international airport in Queens, New York City. It serves over 62 million passengers annually and features five active terminals, providing a range of amenities for travellers. These include free Wi-Fi, medical services, and dining and shopping options. JFK also offers luggage storage, currency exchange, and interfaith chapels for relaxation. The airport is designed to enhance the passenger experience with services like baggage handling and information desks, making it a vital hub for local and international travel.

Location: Queens, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via the AirTrain JFK, which connects to the subway system (A-line) and LIRR; taxis, rideshares, and buses are also available

2. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

A vibrant view of LaGuardia Airport with planes and terminal in October 2023.

Photo: Ptrump16 / Wikimedia Commons

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is a major airport in East Elmhurst, Queens, New York City. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey operates the facility, which was named for former New York City Mayor Fiorello La Guardia. It opened in 1939. LGA mostly handles domestic flights and is noted for its proximity to Manhattan, making it an attractive option for travellers. The airport has undergone extensive modifications to update its facilities and enhance the passenger experience. Despite being smaller than JFK and Newark airports, LaGuardia remains an important hub for air travel in the New York metropolitan area.

Location: Queens, New York
How To Reach: Easily accessible via the M60-SBS bus, Q70 bus, taxis, rideshares, and the seven subway lines

3. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

A vibrant view of a Check-in area, one of the most popular airports in New York.

Photo: Adam Moreira / Wikimedia Commons

Newark Liberty International Airport is New York’s third major airport in Newark, New Jersey. It is one of the oldest airports in the United States and is a central hub for United Airlines. Newark offers a variety of international and domestic flights, including service to destinations across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It is also well-served by taxis and rideshare services, making it a popular airport in New York for travellers heading to New Jersey or any New York boroughs.

Location: Newark, New Jersey
How To Reach: Accessible via the AirTrain Newark, New Jersey Transit, taxis, and rideshare services

4. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

A view of an Airplane taking off from the runway at Buffalo Niagara International Airport.

Photo: JonPauling / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Buffalo Niagara International Airport serves the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area and offers flights primarily within the United States and to Canada. The airport is the second-largest in New York State, providing domestic airports and limited international flights, making it one of the best airports. Buffalo Niagara is known for its efficient service and is a hub for Southwest Airlines, which operates various low-cost flights to popular destinations. The airport also offers amenities like free Wi-Fi and several dining options.

Location: Buffalo, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via taxis, rental cars, and regional buses

5. Albany International Airport (ALB)

An Interior view of the Airport terminal with seating and shops, one of the airports in New York.

Photo: Ian Poellet / Wikimedia Commons

Albany International Airport in New York State’s capital region, offers domestic and limited international flights. It is the busiest airport in upstate New York and provides convenient access to Albany and nearby cities. Albany International features modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, shopping, and dining, and operates flights to major US cities like New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Location: Albany, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via taxis, rental cars, and regional buses

6. Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)

A view of an Airplane taking off at an airport, symbolizing air travel and aviation.

Photo: jackmac34 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is a city-owned, mixed civil-military airport in Syracuse, New York, five miles northeast of downtown. It serves as a vital hub for passenger and cargo flights, with American, Delta, JetBlue, and United operating from its terminals. The airport features two active runways and offers nonstop service to numerous destinations. Recent renovations have modernized its facilities, enhancing the travel experience for passengers. Additionally, the airport plays a significant role in the local economy, supporting various businesses and providing employment opportunities.

Location: Syracuse, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via taxis, rental cars, and regional buses

7. Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)

A view of United Airlines planes parked at one of the international airports in New York.

Photo: Nick.photos.13 / Wikimedia Commons

Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) serves Rochester, New York, and Monroe County. The airport provides commercial passenger services and cargo operations in Chilli, New York. Managed by the Rochester Airport Authority, ROC offers flights to major hub cities across the United States through carriers like Delta, American, and United Airlines. The airport features modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, multiple dining options, and convenient parking facilities. With approximately 1.3 million passengers annually, ROC connects the Rochester metropolitan area to national and regional destinations.

Location: Rochester, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via taxis, rental cars, and regional buses

8. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)

A view of an Airplane on the runway at an airport with clear blue skies in the background.

Photo: Nick115 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) serves Suffolk County and the Long Island region in New York, located in Ronkonkoma. Owned by Suffolk County, the airport primarily handles domestic passenger flights and serves as a critical transportation hub for Long Island residents. Southwest Airlines is the primary commercial carrier, offering routes to multiple destinations across the United States. The airport features convenient parking, car rental services, and essential passenger amenities. Despite challenges from nearby larger metropolitan airports like JFK and LaGuardia, ISP remains an important regional transportation centre.

Location: Ronkonkoma, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), taxis, and rental cars

9. Stewart International Airport (SWF)

Airplane on the runway at an airport with clear blue skies - one of the airports in New York.

Photo: Acroterion / Wikimedia Commons

Stewart International Airport (SWF) is located in New Windsor, New York, about 60 miles north of Manhattan. It serves as a convenient alternative to the larger New York City airports, offering both domestic and limited international flights. SWF is known for its more relaxed atmosphere, shorter lines, and easy access. The airport features free Wi-Fi, dining options, and car rental services. It is well-connected to the region via I-84, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Location: New Windsor, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via taxis, rental cars, and private shuttle services

10. Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG)

An aerial view of Plattsburgh International Airport with runways and surrounding landscape

Photo: Björn Strey / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Plattsburgh International Airport serves the North Country region of New York, located near the Canadian border. This regional airport offers domestic flights and is a convenient alternative for travellers visiting the Adirondack region. While smaller than major New York airports, PBG provides essential air transportation services with airlines like Cape Air. The airport is particularly useful for travellers exploring the scenic Adirondack Mountains or heading to nearby Canadian destinations. Its strategic location makes it an attractive option for those seeking to avoid the congestion of larger metropolitan airports.

Location: Plattsburgh, New York
How To Reach: Accessible via rental cars and local transportation services

Airports in New York cater to major international flights and minor regional travel. From the iconic John F. Kennedy International Airport to smaller hubs like Long Island MacArthur and Stewart International, these airports provide various travel options for every passenger. Whether you’re flying internationally, across the country, or just within the state, New York’s airports ensure convenient, accessible travel. Plan a trip with TripXL for the best deals and services.

Cover Photo: bilaleldaou / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Stewart International Airport provides both short-term and long-term parking facilities for travellers.
Several shuttle services operate between New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport for convenient transportation.
Long Island MacArthur Airport primarily handles domestic flights, with limited options for international travel.
Yes, Buffalo Niagara International Airport offers affordable flights with airlines like Southwest and JetBlue, making it a budget-friendly choice for travellers.
Albany International Airport offers services for private aviation through charter companies and fixed-base operators (FBOs).

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