Newark preferred by NYC business travelers; JFK and LGA viable options

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Newark preferred by NYC business travelers; JFK and LGA viable options

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John F. Kennedy International Airport | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Feb 23, 2025

The New York City metropolitan area, a significant hub for business travel, presents unique challenges and opportunities due to its three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). As the financial capital of the United States, New York attracts numerous global business travelers seeking convenient access to their destinations.

Major airlines like United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines have established significant operations in the region. JFK serves as a primary international gateway for both Delta and American Airlines, while LaGuardia focuses on domestic and short-haul flights. United Airlines operates a substantial hub at Newark Airport.

Business travelers prioritize convenience when choosing an airport. While all three airports serve different groups effectively based on location, Newark emerges as particularly advantageous for many parts of Western Manhattan. According to Uber data, it takes approximately 26 minutes to travel from Hudson Yards to Newark Airport. This is considerably faster than traveling to JFK or LaGuardia from the same area.

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Travelers from Lower Manhattan's Financial District find similar commute times to both Newark and LaGuardia—around 30 minutes—but reaching JFK can exceed 45 minutes under typical traffic conditions.

While Newark generally offers better access for business districts in Midtown and Hudson Yards, there are instances where JFK or LaGuardia may be more suitable. For example, LaGuardia might be preferable for domestic flights due to lower traffic risks compared to crossing into New Jersey. Meanwhile, JFK provides a broader selection of nonstop long-haul flights essential for trips beyond Europe.

Ultimately, while Newark is often the most convenient choice for business travelers heading into Manhattan’s major districts, preferences may vary based on specific travel needs such as destination or airline loyalty.