30/01/2018
New York City, a city that never sleeps, is home to two of the busiest airports in the United States: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Both are vital gateways for millions of travellers annually, connecting them to the vibrant energy of the Big Apple. While they are geographically close, located just 16 kilometres apart in Queens, the journey between them can feel like a significant undertaking. This guide aims to demystify the process, offering a comprehensive look at the various transportation options available, their pros and cons, and what to expect when moving between these two major air hubs.
Understanding Your Transfer Options
When planning your transfer from JFK to LGA, or vice versa, understanding the available modes of transport is paramount. You'll find a mix of official shuttle services, traditional taxis, ride-sharing apps, and public transportation. Each comes with its own set of considerations, from cost and convenience to travel time and luggage capacity. It's crucial to remember that there is no direct train or subway line connecting the two airports, making ground transportation the only viable option. Therefore, factoring in New York's notorious traffic is essential for a timely arrival.
The NYC Airporter: A Dedicated Shuttle Service
For those seeking a dedicated airport-to-airport connection, the NYC Airporter, also known as the New York Express, offers a direct shuttle bus service between JFK and LGA. This express service aims to provide a straightforward transfer, typically completing the journey in about 60 minutes. However, it's important to be aware of potential waiting times, which can extend up to 30 minutes for the bus. The service operates between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
Key information for the NYC Airporter:
- Operating Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Transfers outside these hours will require alternative arrangements.
- JFK Departure Points: Buses can be found near the ground transportation welcome centres in Terminals 1, 7, and 8. If you are arriving at a different terminal, the free AirTrain monorail can be used to reach these locations.
- LGA Departure Points: The bus stop is located after the baggage claim area, near the ground transportation desk in Terminals B, C, and D. Passengers arriving at other LGA terminals will need to walk to these designated points.
- Luggage: There is limited storage space available below the bus for larger pieces of luggage, so keep this in mind if you are travelling with significant baggage.
- Cost: A one-way fare on the NYC Airporter is approximately $20.
Public Transport: The Budget-Friendly, Multi-Modal Approach
For the more adventurous traveller or those on a tighter budget, a combination of public transportation offers a significantly more affordable way to travel between JFK and LGA. This method involves multiple transfers but can be a rewarding experience if you're comfortable with navigating public transit.
The journey begins with the JFK AirTrain. You'll need to purchase an AirTrain ticket, which currently costs $8.25. Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station. From Jamaica Station, transfer to the E subway line, heading towards Manhattan. Ride the E train to the Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave station. Here, you will connect to the Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link bus. This bus is renowned for its direct route to LGA and is either free or included with a MetroCard transfer, making it an incredibly economical final leg of the journey.
The entire public transport trip typically takes between 60 to 75 minutes, with an estimated cost of $11–13. While this option is budget-friendly and efficient, it may present challenges for travellers with heavy luggage due to the multiple changes and walking involved.
Taxis: The Traditional Door-to-Door Option
For a more direct and potentially less complicated journey, yellow taxis are a ubiquitous option at both JFK and LaGuardia. The driving distance is approximately 12 miles, and travel times can fluctuate significantly, ranging from 15 to 45 minutes, heavily dependent on New York City's traffic conditions.
Taxis at both airports operate on a metered fare system, meaning the final cost will vary based on the distance travelled, time of day, and any applicable surcharges. Traffic congestion, particularly in the Queens area and along the Van Wyck Expressway, can lead to longer travel times and increased fares. It's also worth noting that weekday rush-hour surcharges (4 PM to 8 PM) may apply.
Key considerations for taxi travel:
- Availability: Yellow taxis are readily available outside the departure doors of each JFK terminal. However, during peak travel times, you might experience waiting periods of up to 45 minutes.
- Estimated Fare: The estimated taxi fare between JFK and LGA typically falls in the range of $90–100, though this can increase with traffic and during peak hours.
- Convenience: Taxis offer a door-to-door service, which is highly convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft
In addition to traditional yellow cabs, New York City offers a robust selection of ride-sharing services, including Uber and Lyft. These platforms often provide competitive pricing, particularly during off-peak hours, and their costs can be comparable to official taxis. The convenience of booking through an app and often receiving an upfront price estimate makes them an attractive alternative for many travellers. Like taxis, their journey times are subject to traffic conditions.
For travellers seeking the utmost in convenience, comfort, and reliability, private car transfers are an excellent option. Companies like AirportTransfer.com specialise in providing seamless airport-to-airport transportation, connecting JFK and LGA, as well as offering services to Newark Airport.
Booking a private transfer in advance offers several advantages:
- Stress-Free Booking: You can reserve your transfer as soon as you book your flights, eliminating the need to search for transport upon arrival.
- Guaranteed Service: Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a pre-arranged service, ensuring a vehicle will be waiting for you.
- Professional Drivers: Transfers are typically handled by experienced, professional drivers familiar with NYC's complex road network.
- Vehicle Options: A range of vehicles can be selected to suit your needs, from sedans to larger SUVs.
- Amenities: Many private transfer services offer additional amenities, secure payment options, and a 100% refund guarantee if cancelled within a specified timeframe.
This option is particularly beneficial for those who prefer to avoid the unpredictability of public transport or the potential wait times associated with taxis and ride-sharing services.
Group Travel: Bus Rentals for Larger Parties
If you are travelling with a group, whether for a corporate event, a family reunion, or a tour, a private bus rental offers a cost-effective and convenient solution for transferring between JFK and LGA. Hiring a group bus ensures that everyone travels together, eliminating the need for multiple vehicles and making the journey more cohesive and manageable.
Companies like AirportTransfer.com partner with licensed transport providers to offer a variety of bus sizes, including:
- Minibus: Suitable for 8–16 passengers.
- Mid-size Bus: Accommodates 17–30 passengers.
- Full-size Coach Bus: Designed for 31–56 passengers.
These services guarantee well-maintained, clean, and comfortable vehicles driven by professional drivers. Booking a group bus provides a reliable, door-to-door experience, ensuring your entire party arrives at their destination together and on time.
Choosing the Right Option: A Comparative Overview
To help you make an informed decision, here's a quick comparison of the main transfer methods:
| Method | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Estimated Time | Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYC Airporter Shuttle | ~$20 | 60 mins + wait time | Moderate (dedicated service) | Solo travellers or couples, moderate luggage |
| Public Transport (AirTrain + Subway + Bus) | ~$11-13 | 60-75 mins | Low (multiple transfers) | Budget travellers, light luggage, comfortable with transit |
| Taxi | $90-100+ | 15-45 mins (traffic dependent) | High (door-to-door) | Travellers valuing directness, with luggage |
| Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) | Varies (competitive) | 15-45 mins (traffic dependent) | High (app-based convenience) | Travellers seeking app convenience, flexible pricing |
| Private Transfer | Varies (premium) | 15-45 mins (traffic dependent) | Very High (pre-booked, reliable) | Travellers prioritizing comfort, reliability, and efficiency |
| Group Bus Rental | Varies (group cost) | 15-45 mins (traffic dependent) | Very High (for groups) | Groups travelling together |
Where to Stay: Hotels Between JFK and LGA
For travellers with long layovers or early/late flights, staying at a hotel located conveniently between JFK and LGA can significantly ease the transit process. Several upscale hotels in Queens and Eastern Brooklyn offer strategic locations, minimizing travel time between the two airports. These hotels often provide amenities such as airport shuttles, business centres, and on-site dining, making them ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Some popular options include the Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World, Hilton New York JFK Airport, Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport, and the LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there a free shuttle bus between JFK and LaGuardia?
No, there is no free shuttle bus service directly connecting JFK and LaGuardia. The NYC Airporter offers a paid express shuttle service.
Q2: Can I take a train between JFK and LaGuardia?
No, there is no direct train or subway line between JFK and LaGuardia airports. You will need to use ground transportation.
Q3: What is the quickest way to get from JFK to LGA?
The quickest way is often a taxi or private car service, provided traffic is light. However, travel times are highly dependent on traffic conditions. Ride-sharing apps can also be quick if booked during off-peak hours.
Q4: Is the Q70 SBS bus free?
Yes, the Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link bus is a free bus service, often included with a MetroCard transfer when travelling from the subway.
Q5: How much does it cost to take a taxi from JFK to LGA?
The estimated taxi fare is between $90 and $100, but this can vary significantly due to traffic and time of day.
Conclusion
Navigating between JFK and LaGuardia airports doesn't have to be a stressful experience. By understanding the various transfer options, their associated costs, travel times, and convenience factors, you can choose the method that best suits your individual needs and travel style. Whether you opt for the dedicated shuttle, the budget-friendly public transport, the traditional taxi, or the premium private transfer, planning ahead is key to a smooth and efficient journey through New York City's bustling air corridors.
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