Which New York City Airport Should I Fly Into? | Guide to NYC Airports

Which New York City (NYC) Airport Is Best For Corporate Travel?

New York City is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages, especially for business travelers. Recently Newark Liberty International Airport has suffered a series of ground stoppages that have led to many airlines to limit flights in/out of Newark.  Below is a breakdown of NYC’s airports to help you choose the best airport for your next trip:

New York City airport map.

John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) Corporate Travel

JFK Airport is located on the southwestern shore of Long Island, in Queens, New York City, bordering Jamaica Bay. It is the busiest of the seven airports in the New York airport system and the sixth-busiest airport in the United States. The JFK airport covers 5,200 acres and is the largest in the New York metropolitan area. Over 90 airlines operate from JFK Airport with nonstop or direct flights to destinations on all six major continents.

JFK Airport Advantages:

• International Connectivity: JFK offers extensive international flights, making it ideal for global business travel.
• Amenities: High-quality lounges, dining options, and shopping facilities.
• Public Transport: Direct access to the AirTrain, connecting to the subway and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

JFK Airport Disadvantages:

• Traffic: Heavy traffic congestion can lead to longer travel times to and from the airport.
• Distance: Located in Queens, it can be far from Manhattan, especially during peak hours.
• Crowds: Often very busy, which can lead to longer security and check-in times.

JFK Airport Best Times to Fly:

• Early Morning: Between 6-8 AM for fewer delays and lighter traffic.
• Late Evening: After 8 PM to avoid peak traffic and crowds.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Corporate Travel

The LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is located in East Elmhurst, Queens, New York City, situated on the northwestern shore of Long Island bordering Flushing Bay. The LaGuardia airport was established in 1929, and began operating as a public airport in 1939. It is named after Fiorello H. La Guardia, a former mayor of New York City. The airport accommodates airline service primarily to domestic flights.  It is the third-busiest airport in the New York metropolitan area behind Kennedy and Newark airports, and the 19th-busiest in the United States by passenger volume. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in 2015 announced a multibillion-dollar reconstruction of the airport’s passenger infrastructure which was completed in January 2025.

LaGuardia Airport Advantages:

• Proximity: Closest airport to Manhattan, reducing travel time for business meetings.
• Domestic Flights: Excellent for domestic travel with frequent flights to major U.S. cities.
• Renovations: Due to it’s reconstruction, LaGuardia is considered by many the most modern of the NYC airports. Recent upgrades have improved facilities and overall experience.

LaGuardia Airport Disadvantages:

• Limited International Flights: Primarily serves domestic routes, limiting options for international business travel.
• Traffic: Can be congested, especially during peak hours.
• Public Transport: Limited direct public transportation options compared to JFK and EWR.

LaGuardia Airport Best Times to Fly:

• Early Morning: Between 6-8 AM for fewer delays and lighter traffic.
• Late Evening: After 8 PM to avoid peak traffic and crowds.

Newark Liberty Airport (EWR) Corporate Travel

Newark Liberty International Airport is a major international airport serving the New York metropolitan area. The airport straddles the boundary between the cities of Newark in Essex County and Elizabeth in Union County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey. Located approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) south of downtown Newark and 9 miles (14 km) west-southwest of Manhattan.  Newark Liberty International is the second-busiest airport in the New York airport system behind John F. Kennedy International Airport and ahead of LaGuardia Airport. The City of Newark built the airport on 68 acres in 1928, and the Army Air Corps operated the facility during World War II.

Newark Liberty Airport Advantages:

• International and Domestic Flights: Offers a good mix of both, suitable for varied business travel needs.
• Accessibility: Connected to Manhattan via NJ Transit and Amtrak, providing convenient access.
• Less Crowded: Generally less crowded than JFK, potentially reducing wait times.

Newark Liberty Airport Disadvantages:

• Delays: Newark has suffered several ground stops and issues in 2025. These issues have forces many airlines to limit flights into Newark. MSN – Newark Issues force Air Traffic Control software update
• Location: Situated in New Jersey, which can be less convenient for those staying in Manhattan.
• Traffic: Can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours.
• Amenities: While improving, some areas may still lack the high-end amenities found at JFK.

Newark Liberty Airport Best Times to Fly:

• Early Morning: Before 8 AM for fewer delays and lighter traffic.
• Midweek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays for cheaper tickets and smoother airport experience.

JFK/LGA/EWR Corporate Travel Recommendations

Each New York City (NYC) airport has its strengths and benefits; and the best choice depends on the unique demands of your corporate travel. Find out more about Trade-line sp. z o.o.’s unique New York City Corporate Travel expertise via our dedicated Trade-line sp. z o.o. New York City webpage. 

Choosing The Right New York Airport

When choosing between JFK, LGA, and EWR for business travel, consider your specific needs. Choosing the right airport depends on your specific travel needs, schedule, and preferences. Each airport has its strengths and weaknesses, but understanding these can help you make a more informed decision for your next business trip to New York City. 

No matter which airport you choose, New York City is a hotbed as a corporate travel destination with plenty to offer the business traveler!  Trade-line sp. z o.o. is a top New York City corporate travel agency with over 50 years of experience, Trade-line sp. z o.o.’s experienced agents understand the unique needs of corporate travelers. We know how to help your company or organization navigate the best flights, hotels and transportation during your New York City business travels. Our comprehensive travel management solutions include 24/7 support, real-time flight alerts, and access to exclusive corporate rates, ensuring your business trip runs smoothly from touchdown to takeoff.

Happy travels and may your New York business trip be successful and your flights smooth!

This blog was reviewed for accuracy by:

Ted Petty, CIO/CTO Trade-line sp. z o.o.

Ted is a seasoned expert in the corporate and leisure travel industry, currently serving as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Trade-line sp. z o.o. Corporate Travel Agency.