Long Island, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant towns, attracts numerous visitors annually. However, lacking a major international airport directly on the island presents a unique travel consideration. This guide simplifies your journey by exploring the closest and most convenient airports near Long Island, catering to various travel needs and budgets.
Which Airports are Closest to Long Island?
The proximity of an airport to your specific location on Long Island significantly impacts your travel time. While no airport is on Long Island, several offer convenient access:
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John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Arguably the most popular choice for Long Islanders, JFK offers numerous international and domestic flights. Its proximity to Queens makes it relatively easy to access via car, taxi, rideshare, or the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Travel time, however, will vary greatly depending on your starting point on the island.
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LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Located in Queens, LGA primarily serves domestic flights and some international destinations. Similar to JFK, it's accessible via car, taxi, rideshare, and public transportation (though the LIRR connection isn't as direct). LGA generally offers shorter security lines than JFK but might have fewer flight options.
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Teterboro Airport (TEB): This smaller airport in New Jersey caters mainly to private and corporate jets. While it's not suitable for budget travelers, TEB offers unparalleled convenience for those who can utilize private air travel. The travel time is significantly shorter compared to the larger airports, however the cost is substantially greater.
What is the best airport to fly into for Long Island?
The "best" airport depends entirely on your priorities:
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For International Flights and Wide Selection: JFK is the clear winner. Its vast network of airlines and destinations makes it ideal for international travel.
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For Domestic Flights and Shorter Commute: LGA offers a balance between convenience and flight options, particularly for domestic travel. It often has shorter security lines than JFK.
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For Speed and Privacy (High Budget): Teterboro Airport is unbeatable for a fast and private experience. However, cost is a major consideration.
How far is JFK from Long Island?
The distance from JFK to Long Island is variable, ranging from approximately 30-90 minutes depending on your exact location on the island and traffic conditions. The eastern end of Long Island will have a considerably longer commute than areas closer to Queens.
How far is LGA from Long Island?
Similar to JFK, the distance from LGA to Long Island fluctuates depending on your location. Travel times typically range from 30 minutes to an hour, again subject to traffic.
What's the cheapest way to get from NYC airports to Long Island?
The most economical method is often the LIRR. However, it's not always the fastest and requires a connection at Jamaica Station (for JFK) and may require additional travel time by bus or car to your final Long Island destination. Rideshares and taxis are faster but are significantly more expensive.
Which airport is closest to Montauk?
While all the previously mentioned airports offer access to Montauk, JFK and LGA are the most realistically accessible options. However, expect a longer travel time (potentially 2-3 hours or more) depending on traffic and chosen mode of transportation.
What is the best way to get to Long Island from JFK?
The best way to reach Long Island from JFK depends on your budget and schedule. Options include:
- LIRR: Economical but time-consuming.
- Taxi or Rideshare: Fastest but most expensive.
- Private Car Service: A balance between comfort and cost.
Choosing the right airport and transportation method is crucial for a smooth Long Island trip. Consider your budget, travel style, and ultimate destination to make the most informed decision.
