Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)

MacArthur Airport
A striking photo captures a jet taking off at sunset from MacArthur Airport, set against a glowing orange sky that reflects the calm, accessible nature of this regional airport. The image represents ISP’s role as a convenient and stress-free departure point for Long Island travelers – offering smooth takeoffs, short lines, and a travel experience that feels far from the congestion of New York City’s larger airports. File photo: AleksSafronov, ShutterStock.com, licensed.

Located in Ronkonkoma, Suffolk County, Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) is a dynamic regional hub owned and operated by the Town of Islip. For many Long Islanders, ISP serves as the most convenient and stress‑free option – offering easy access, fewer delays, and a relaxed travel experience compared to busier New York‑area airports.

Originally established as Islip Airport in the early 1940s as a military airfield, MacArthur transitioned into commercial service in 1960. Over time, it has earned a reputation for reliability and convenience – handling over 1.36 million passengers annually in 2024, with daily traffic averaging more than 5,000 travelers.

While smaller in scale, ISP provides nonstop service via airlines such as JetBlue, Southwest, Frontier, Breeze, Avelo, and Cape Air—connecting Long Islanders to major U.S. cities and nearby sun destinations in the Southeast, Florida, New England, and beyond. This makes ISP a favorite for residents seeking domestic convenience and a calmer airport experience.

The airport is slated for a major transformation: a new north terminal connected directly to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station via pedestrian walkway, supported by $150 million in state funding, plus substantial county and local investment to enhance access, infrastructure, and future growth.

Airport Basics & Runways

  • Owner/Operator: Town of Islip (aviation department)
  • Opening Year: 1942 (activated 1943); first commercial flights in 1960
  • Size: 1,311 acres with three asphalt runways and two helipads, suitable for regional and general aviation traffic.
  • Operations (2024): ~1.36 million passengers; ~172,000 aircraft operations; ~85% general aviation, ~7% scheduled airlines

Airlines & Popular Destinations

ISP is served by six airlines offering nonstop service to destinations including:

  • JetBlue Airways
  • Southwest Airlines
  • Frontier Airlines
  • Breeze Airways
  • Avelo Airlines
  • Cape Air (starting summer 2025)

Common routes include major cities such as Baltimore, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, West Palm Beach, Boston, Miami, and Nashville – ideal for quick getaways or essential connections.

Getting to ISP

  • By Car: Accessible from the Long Island Expressway (I-495 Exits 57–60), Veterans Memorial Highway (NY‑454), and Sunrise Highway (NY‑27)
  • Public Transit: Suffolk County Transit’s Route 6 connects ISP with Central Islip, Patchogue, and Huntington Stations. Hampton Jitney services along I-495 (Exit 60) also offer access to the terminal via short taxi or shuttle ride
  • Future Rail Link: A forthcoming pedestrian walkway to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station will enable seamless rail access to the airport, encouraging more passengers to use train options over roads.

Terminal & Passenger Experience

The original terminal (built in 1966) received expansions in 1990 and again in the 2000s, including Southwest Airlines’ $65M concourse addition. Despite challenges during that construction, the terminal today features straightforward design, modest amenities, and efficient layouts for quick turnaround.

Travelers will find a no-fuss atmosphere with essential dining, newsstands, car rental desks, and charging stations. The relaxed environment and limited crowds translate to shorter security lines and streamlined boarding.

Growth & Modernization Ahead

A major evolution is underway:

  • New North-Side Terminal Project: ($3.3B in phases) with eight initial gates connected via pedestrian bridge to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station. Supported by $150M state + $50M local investment for roads, sewers, and rail connection infrastructure.
  • Amtrak Expansion: Plans for a Northeast Regional route terminating at Ronkonkoma Station by 2028 would provide direct rail service between ISP and many East Coast cities.

In Popular Culture

Despite its small size, ISP has appeared in various films and TV shows:

  • The Out-of-Towners (1970)
  • Every Day (2008)
  • FX’s Louie (2010)
  • Sean Paul’s music video “She Doesn’t Mind” (2011)
  • Non-Stop starring Liam Neeson (2012)
  • Ricki and the Flash starring Meryl Streep (2014)

Airport Snapshot

FeatureDetails
LocationRonkonkoma, Islip, Suffolk County – ~50 miles from Midtown NYC
Airport CodeISP (IATA), KISP (ICAO)
Annual Passengers~1.36 million (2024)
Main AirlinesJetBlue, Southwest, Frontier, Breeze, Avelo, Cape Air
RunwaysThree active runways; helipads; general aviation support
AccessCar, bus, jitney service; future LIRR/AirTrain rail connection
Major Upgrades$3.3B terminal project; pedestrian link to Ronkonkoma LIRR; new infrastructure
StrengthsEasy parking, fewer crowds, strong on-time performance
Website:https://flymacarthur.com

Travel Tips for Long Island Users

  • Opt for flying from ISP if you prefer ease, short lines, and direct access from Suffolk and central Nassau counties.
  • Check airline and flight schedules, especially if traveling to Florida or Boston—some routes are seasonal.
  • Use Suffolk Transit Route 6 or Hampton Jitney if you want to avoid driving.
  • Watch construction updates—the new terminal and rail link will significantly change access patterns in coming years.
  • Book early if parking or rental cars are needed, especially in peak summer months or holidays.