Travel Options to and from Brooklyn and New York City Airports
Getting to and from the three major New York area airports can be expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, planning ahead is essential. This guide outlines how to navigate your way to and from Brooklyn to New York City’s airports: JFK International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport.
Typically, the most costly trip from Brooklyn to the airports is to Newark, followed by JFK and then LaGuardia. It is worth noting that JFK is the most accessible via public transport. However, none of the local airports is connected by a direct rail line to Brooklyn, unlike some European cities.
JFK Airport
You have several options for getting to and from JFK airport:
Cabs and Ride-Sharing Services
You can use a ride-sharing service or call a green “Boro taxi” to arrange a pickup in Brooklyn. Expect travel times of about an hour. Popular ridesharing options include Uber and Lyft.
Public Transit
The AirTrain is available and provides connections to various points in NYC that connect to the subway for Brooklyn access. The combination of AirTrain and LIRR is also a viable route. Furthermore, the MTA’s Trip Planner offers real-time travel options with estimated travel times specific to your journey.
Private Express Bus
The NYC Airport Express Bus departs from JFK approximately every half hour, providing services to Port Authority Bus Terminal, Grand Central Station, and Penn Station in Manhattan.
Shared-Ride Vans or Private Car Services
These options can be reserved in advance. Though larger than cabs, shared-ride vans can be pricier. Recommended services include Airlink New York, All-County Express, and ETS Air Shuttle, while private services like Carmel Car, Dial 7 Car & Limousine, and ExecuCar are also available.
Drive and Park
Driving and parking at JFK is an option as well. Check the airport parking website for rates, available lots, and current pricing information.
LaGuardia Airport
Similar to JFK, you have several options for traveling to and from Brooklyn to LaGuardia:
Cabs and Car Services
For LaGuardia, you may also use ride-sharing services or the green “Boro taxis.” Expect travel times of 30 minutes to an hour, and remember that while no tolls are incurred, be prepared for tips and wait times if you arrange for pickups. Fortunately, there are no additional fees for extra passengers.
Public Transportation
This is the most economical option; thus, consider traveling between Brooklyn and LaGuardia via public transportation for full details. The MTA’s Trip Planner is useful for real-time travel estimates based on your travel time.
Private Express Bus
You can catch a private express bus to and from LaGuardia that operates every half hour. This service is available from major hubs including Manhattan’s Port Authority Bus Terminal, Grand Central Station, and Penn Station, facilitating easy subway transfers for continued Brooklyn travel.
Shared-Ride Vans
Reservations for shared-ride vans can be made at terminals’ welcome centers, or via self-service kiosks if the counter is closed. Keep in mind this option is usually more cost-effective for groups.
Drive and Park
You can also drive to LaGuardia and park on-site for a fee. To find out which terminal has space, check the airport’s website.
Newark Airport
Although many Brooklyn residents prefer JFK or LaGuardia, Newark is a convenient option, with several methods for traveling to the airport:
Budget-Friendly Option
Save money by utilizing public transportation to Newark. The subway system connects you to the Newark AirTrain, making this an affordable option. Surprisingly, this choice can sometimes be the quickest, especially during busy holiday seasons.
Note that the AirTrain Newark does not go directly into Manhattan or Brooklyn but connects to a “Rail Transfer Station,” allowing you to board a New Jersey Transit train to New York Pennsylvania Station. Accessible escalators and elevators are available for your luggage.
Easiest Route
The most comfortable yet more expensive option is a taxi or car service. Be prepared to pay for the long trip; consider pre-arranging your ride a day or two before, especially during holidays.
If you prefer a traditional approach, calling a car service is still an option for rides to Newark Airport from Brooklyn.
Drive and Park
For those who have rented a car during their visit, Newark Liberty Airport is conveniently located along the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) for easy pick-up. Alternatively, parking is available if you choose to drive directly.
