Should I fly into JFK?

Passengers arrive and depart outside John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), one of the nation's busiest aviation hubs and a primary gateway for travelers visiting Long Island, New York City, and destinations throughout the Northeast. File photo: Leonard Zhukovsky, licensed. — Passengers arrive and depart outside John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), one of the nation’s busiest aviation hubs and a primary gateway for travelers visiting Long Island, New York City, and destinations throughout the Northeast. File photo: Leonard Zhukovsky, licensed.

For many visitors, flying into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the most convenient way to reach Long Island. Located in Queens near the island’s western edge, JFK offers nonstop flights from hundreds of domestic and international destinations while providing easy access to Nassau County, western Suffolk County, and New York City.

In Short

JFK is Long Island’s busiest nearby airport and is an excellent choice for international travelers, those seeking the widest selection of flights, or visitors planning to explore both Long Island and New York City. However, depending on your destination, Long Island MacArthur Airport or LaGuardia Airport may be more convenient.

Should I Fly into JFK?

John F. Kennedy International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as the primary international gateway for the New York metropolitan area. Because of its location, it is often the best airport for travelers visiting western Long Island, attending events in New York City, or looking for the greatest variety of airlines and nonstop routes.

From JFK, visitors can reach much of Long Island by rental car, taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or public transportation. The airport also connects to the Long Island Rail Road through the AirTrain system, making it possible to travel to many Long Island communities without driving.

If your destination is in central or eastern Suffolk County, you may want to compare flights into Long Island MacArthur Airport, which is located much closer to many eastern Long Island destinations. Travelers visiting northern Queens may also find LaGuardia Airport to be a convenient alternative.

Comparing airfare, travel time, rental car availability, and your final destination can help determine which airport offers the best overall value for your trip.

Quick Facts

Consideration	Information
Best For	International travelers, the widest selection of flights, and western Long Island destinations.
Airlines	Numerous domestic and international airlines with extensive nonstop service.
Transportation	Rental cars, taxis, rideshare services, AirTrain, and connections to the Long Island Rail Road.
Nearby Alternatives	LaGuardia Airport and Long Island MacArthur Airport.

If you’re looking for the greatest number of flight options and easy access to both Long Island and New York City, John F. Kennedy International Airport is often an excellent choice. Before booking, it’s worth comparing nearby airports to see which offers the best combination of airfare, convenience, and travel time for your itinerary.