Flights to New York City
Buy your flights to New York and pay later
Flying to New York and want to pay later? You’re in the right place. At Alternative Airlines, we make booking flights simple - and that includes how you pay. With our Buy Now Pay Later options, you can split the cost of your flights to New York into smaller, more manageable chunks.
So instead of paying everything upfront, you can lock in your flights and pay over time. That gives you the breathing room to focus on the exciting stuff - whether it’s a catch-up in Queens, a weekend on Broadway or bagels in Brooklyn.
We work with the world’s top flexible payment providers like Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm, Sezzle and more. Some even offer interest-free plans for a set time, so you won’t get hit with extra fees.
Book your flights to New York today and pay your way ✨
How to find cheap flights to New York
Start with a search 🔎
Type ‘New York’ into our search bar, pick your travel dates, and we’ll do the rest. You’ll see options from over 600 airlines, both low-cost and full-service.
Sort and filter ✔️
You can tick that too. Use filters to sort by price, shortest journey time or your favourite airline. Want a direct flight? Just tick the box.
Be flexible with your dates 📅
Flight prices can shift depending on the day. If you’re open to adjusting your dates slightly, our best fare finder tool can help spot the cheapest travel day.
Pay your way 💸
Choose to pay in full or spread the cost over time. We’ve got plenty of flexible payment options, so you can book without the financial strain.
Top tip 💡
Flying mid-week or avoiding peak travel times can mean lower fares. Booking early helps too.
Top airlines flying to New York
We bring together 600+ airlines so you can find the right one for New York City fast. These are our favourites:
Delta is a top choice for flights to New York, thanks to its extensive network and strong presence at both JFK and LaGuardia airports.
At JFK, Delta operates direct international routes from major cities across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America.
It’s also a key hub for domestic long-haul flights from cities like Los Angeles and Miami. Over at LaGuardia, Delta focuses on shorter domestic routes, offering quick connections from cities like Boston, Atlanta and Chicago.
With modern terminals, a wide choice of flight times and premium cabin options, Delta makes flying to New York simple and convenient.
United Airlines is a popular choice for flights to New York, thanks to its strong presence at Newark Liberty International Airport.
With nearly 70% of passenger traffic at the airport, United offers direct routes from top US cities like Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami, as well as international hubs including London, Rome and Dubai. Its growing network now includes new destinations across Europe and even Greenland.
As a Star Alliance member, United also gives travellers access to a global network of partners. Plus, with plans for electric air taxis, United is helping make airport connections across New York even faster.
American Airlines offers direct flights to New York from major cities across the US, including Chicago, Dallas, Miami and Los Angeles, as well as international hubs like London, Madrid, Tokyo and São Paulo. Flights land at JFK, LaGuardia or Newark, giving travellers flexible options.
As a member of the Oneworld alliance, American makes it easy to connect through global partners like British Airways and Japan Airlines. Travellers can choose from a range of cabin classes, including Flagship First and Premium Economy. With upgrades at JFK’s Terminal 8 and new lounges, American Airlines is a popular choice for comfort, convenience and worldwide connectivity.
What other airlines fly to New York?
No matter where you’re flying from, chances are there’s an airline that’ll get you to New York. Here are the ones making the trip:
Airports in New York
Getting to New York is simple. These four airports connect you to the city from all directions.
John F. Kennedy International Airport
If you're heading to New York, JFK is one of the city's top choices. It's the busiest international airport in North America, with non-stop flights to six continents. So, whether you're coming from London, Tokyo or Los Angeles, there's likely a route for you.
JFK is a hub for American Airlines, Delta and JetBlue, and has 5 active terminals with plenty of lounges, shops and dining spots.
Getting to Manhattan is simple. Take the AirTrain to connect with the subway or LIRR, grab a yellow cab for a flat fare, or book a shuttle straight to your hotel.
Newark Liberty International Airport
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is one of the easiest ways to reach New York. It's situated in Newark, New Jersey, about 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan. EWR offers direct access to the city.
It's a major hub for United Airlines and also services airlines like American, JetBlue, Emirates and Lufthansa.
EWR has 3 terminals, including the recently upgraded Terminal A. Trains, express buses and rideshares all connect you to Manhattan in under an hour, depending on traffic.
LaGuardia Airport
LaGuardia (LGA) is one of New York City’s main airports and the closest to Manhattan. Just 8 miles from Midtown, it’s a popular choice for domestic flights, especially if you want to cut down on travel time into the city.
After an $8 billion overhaul, LGA now has modern terminals, better dining and smoother check-ins. Delta leads operations from Terminal C, while American runs a strong schedule out of Terminal B. You’ll also find JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and more flying in and out.
Getting into the city is easy too, whether it’s a free Q70 bus to the subway, a flat-fare Uber Shuttle, or a quick ride-share.
Stewart International Airport
Flying into Stewart International (SWF) is a smart way to avoid the chaos of New York's busier airports. Around 60 miles north of Manhattan, it's a quieter entry point with shorter queues and a much calmer vibe.
SWF is served by budget-friendly airlines like Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways and PLAY, with non-stop flights from Florida, Charleston and even Reykjavik, opening up easy access from Europe. Atlantic Airways also offers seasonal flights to New York from the Faroe Islands.
Reaching the city is simple, with direct buses to Manhattan, nearby train links and the option to drive too. It's easy, affordable and surprisingly scenic.
Popular flights to New York
New York City is one of the most connected destinations in the world, with a huge range of flights coming in from across the U.S. and around the globe. Whether you're flying for business, a break or something in between, there’s no shortage of ways to get there.
Top Domestic Routes
- Los Angeles to New York flights - Top carriers include American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and United. Flight duration of around 5 hours.
- Chicago to New York flights - Served by American Airlines, United, Delta and JetBlue. Flight duration of around 2 hours.
- Atlanta to New York flights - Operated by Delta, American Airlines and Southwest. Flight duration of around 2-2.5 hours.
- Miami to New York flights - Primarily handled by American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and Spirit. Flight duration of around 2.5-3 hours.
- Orlando to New York flights - Flights available with JetBlue, Delta, Spirit and American Airlines. Flight duration of around 2.5-3 hours.
- Houston to New York flights - Carriers include United, American Airlines and JetBlue. Flight duration of around 3.5-4 hours.
Top International Routes
- London (LHR) - Served by American Airlines, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Flight duration of around 7-8 hours.
- Paris (CDG) - Operated by Air France, Delta and American Airlines. Flight duration of around 7-8 hours.
- Toronto (YYZ) - Flights available with Air Canada, WestJet and American Airlines. Flight duration of around 1.5-2 hours.
- Mexico City (MEX) - Primarily handled by Aeroméxico, American Airlines and Volaris. Flight duration of around 4-6 hours.
- São Paulo (GRU) - Regularly operated by American Airlines and LATAM Brasil. Flight duration of around 9.5-10 hours.
- Tokyo (NRT) - Served by Japan Airlines, ANA and United Airlines. Flight duration of around 14 hours.
Book flights to New York
New York sits on America’s east coast, where iconic sights meet everyday buzz. Think skyline views from the Empire State Building, ferries to the Statue of Liberty and the steady hum of yellow cabs below.
You’ll find quiet moments too, like a walk through Central Park or along the High Line. Over in Brooklyn, the bridge gives you one of the best views in town. Art and culture is everywhere - the Met, MoMA and the American Museum of Natural History are just the start. And if you're after something smaller, the Frick is back open and well worth a visit.
Food-wise, there’s no shortage of choice. Grab bagels in Manhattan, dumplings in Flushing, or a slice in Brooklyn. From street food to fine dining, you won’t go hungry. After dark, the city comes alive. Catch a Broadway show, swing by a jazz club in Harlem or find a rooftop bar with a view.
Ready for your New York moment? 🗽
With 600+ airlines and 40+ ways to pay, including flexible options, you can lock in flights to New York that work for your travel plan and your budget. Book now, pay later, and take the stress out of getting there.
What to do in New York City
Catch a show on Broadway 🎭
From big-name musicals to offbeat plays, there’s nothing like theatre in the Big Apple. Head to Times Square and pick a show or two.
Explore world-class museums 🖼️
Wander the halls of the Met, spot a Warhol at MoMA or hang out with dinosaurs at the American Museum of Natural History. There’s something for every mood (and weather).
Walk it out 🌳
Central Park is the obvious pick, but don’t miss the High Line - a converted railway track turned garden trail with city views and art along the way.
Shop the streets 🛍️
Hit Fifth Avenue for flagship stores, SoHo for boutiques, and Brooklyn for vintage finds and flea market gems.
Take in the views 🌉
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset, or head up the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock for a skyline moment you won’t forget.
Eat everything 🍕
Bagels, pizza, dumplings, dollar slices, fine dining - New York’s food scene is one of the best in the world. Come hungry.
Top things to do in New York
Too much choice? We’ve picked three New York spots that never disappoint:
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a powerful symbol of freedom and a must-see for anyone visiting New York City. Start your visit at Liberty Island, where the on-site museum gives you the full backstory - how the statue was built, what it stands for - the original torch is there too.
If you’re up for a bit of a climb, Pedestal Reserve tickets let you step inside the base for panoramic views across the harbour. Feeling brave? Crown access means 162 narrow steps to the top - booking ahead is a must for this one.
Your General Admission ticket covers round-trip ferry rides and access to both museums. Prices start around $24 for adults, $18 for seniors and $12 for children.
Ferries run every 20-30 minutes from both Manhattan and New Jersey. Head out early if you want a quieter visit - weekdays in spring or autumn are best. There’s airport-style security before you board, so don’t cut it too close.
Central Park
Right in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park gives New York a bit of breathing space. It’s open daily from 6 AM to 1 AM, and it won’t cost you a penny to wander in.
This 843-acre patch of green comes with everything from woodland trails and skyline views to free performances and lakeside strolls. Don’t miss Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, or the quiet paths through The Ramble. For a photo-worthy moment, head to Belvedere Castle or circle the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. And if you're after a spot of peace, the Conservatory Garden and Strawberry Fields are ideal.
Families can swing by the Central Park Zoo or stretch out on the Great Lawn when the weather’s good. Seasonal events like SummerStage and Shakespeare in the Park add a little extra magic to your visit, while winter brings ice skating at Wollman Rink.
Whether you're cycling the loop, rowing on the lake or just taking it all in with a coffee in hand, there’s no wrong way to enjoy Central Park. Just remember, early mornings and sunset hours are your best bet for quiet and great views.
Times Square
Times Square sits at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. It's one of New York City’s most recognisable landmarks and a central point for transport, entertainment and big-city buzz.
The area runs from 42nd to 47th Street and is easy to reach via major subway lines. Known for its huge digital billboards, Times Square is especially striking after dark. It’s also home to many of the city’s Broadway theatres, with the TKTS booth offering same-day discounts on shows.
There’s no shortage of places to eat or shop, from global brands to themed restaurants. You’ll also find the Museum of Broadway nearby, offering a look into the history of theatre in the city.
Open 24/7, Times Square is busiest in the evening, but if you prefer a quieter visit, early mornings are a better bet. And if you’re in town for New Year’s Eve, it’s where the famous ball drop happens.
Upcoming Events in New York
Here’s a quick roundup of what’s coming up in New York this year - perfect for planning a last-minute getaway or locking in your next travel plan:
- Met Gala 2025 - 5 May 2025 @ The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Manhattan. The 2025 Met Gala celebrates “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” focusing on menswear and Black dandyism. Co-chaired by Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo and A$AP Rocky, with LeBron James as honorary chair.
- Governors Ball Music Festival - 6-8 June 2025 @ Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, Queens. This multi-day music festival returns with headliners including Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo and Hozier. Other acts include Glass Animals, Clairo and T-Pain.
- Tribeca Festival - 4-15 June 2025. Tribeca 2025 features film premieres, live performances and original storytelling. Highlights include Miley Cyrus’s visual album and a new Billy Joel documentary.
- NYC Pride March - 29 June 2025 in Manhattan (Fifth Avenue through Greenwich Village). Recognised as the world’s largest pride parade, the NYC Pride March attracts millions. The route passes through historic locations, including the Stonewall National Monument.
- Ryder Cup 2025 - 26-28 September 2025 @ Bethpage Black, Farmingdale. The 45th Ryder Cup takes place just outside New York City. Team USA, led by Keegan Bradley, faces Team Europe, captained by Luke Donald.
- New York Burlesque Festival - 9-12 October 2025 in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Now in its 22nd year, the festival showcases over 100 burlesque and variety performers from around the world.
Best time to visit New York
No matter when you visit, New York brings something different every season. From park walks in spring to festive lights in winter, here’s what to expect throughout the year, so you can plan around the weather, events and crowds.
Spring 🌸
April to June
Best for mild weather and fewer crowds. Spring is a great time to visit if you want to beat the summer rush. Parks bloom, temperatures rise, and the city feels fresh.
April stays cool (13°C / 55°F), with quieter streets and blooms in Central Park. May warms up (17°C / 63°F) - perfect for boat rides and sunny strolls. By June, it’s rooftop season (23°C / 73°F) without the full summer crowds.
Summer ☀️
July to August
Best for big events, but expect heat and crowds. Summer brings energy and excitement, but also heat and humidity. If you’re up for it, you’ll find no shortage of things to do.
Typical temperatures often hit 29°C (84°F) or higher. You can expect outdoor concerts, parades and street fairs. Just make sure to plan around the midday heat and busy spots.
Autumn 🍂
September to November
Best for cooler weather and autumn colours. Autumn in New York means fresh air, golden leaves and fewer tourists than summer. It’s the sweet spot for exploring the city.
September brings comfy days (20°C / 68°F on average) and major events like Fashion Week and the US Open. October cools down (14°C / 57°F), with crisp mornings and parks full of autumn colour. By early November, it’s chillier (10°C / 50°F), but the city buzzes with the NYC Marathon and a hint of holiday magic in the air.
Winter ❄️
December to February
Best for festive lights and holiday magic. New York in winter can be chilly, but December transforms the city into something special.
Typical temperatures are -3°C to 4°C (27°F to 39°F). You'll see ice rinks, light displays and festive markets. January and February are colder but quieter - good for deals and fewer queues.
Wherever you're looking to go next, we'll get you there on your terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to fly to New York?
To visit New York (or anywhere in the US), you’ll need a valid passport. For most travellers, it should be valid for at least six months after your stay. But if you're from countries like the UK or Australia, your passport just needs to cover your travel dates.
If you're from a Visa Waiver country (like the UK or Australia), apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before you fly. If you're from a country like India, you’ll need to apply for a US tourist visa instead.
What are the best ways to get from the airport to Manhattan or other boroughs?
From JFK, many take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then jump on the subway (E or A lines). It’s affordable, but the LIRR from the same station gets you to Midtown quicker, for a bit more. Taxis charge a flat $70 to Manhattan, while Uber and Lyft can cost $60-$100, depending on traffic.
At LaGuardia, the Q70 bus is your free ride to the subway. Or hop on the M60 if you're heading to Harlem or Upper Manhattan. Taxis usually run $40–$60. Uber now offers an $18 shuttle to Midtown, too. From Newark, take the AirTrain to NJ Transit - straight into Penn Station for around $16.80. Or grab a Newark Airport Express bus for about $18.
Are there direct flights to New York from my city?
Not every city has a non-stop flight to New York, but chances are, you’re not far off. New York is one of the most connected cities on the planet, with non-stop flights from major airports across Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, South America and North America. So if you’re flying from somewhere like London, Tokyo, Nairobi, Auckland or São Paulo, you can fly straight in.
If there’s no non-stop or direct option from your city, a connecting flight will still get you there - with over 600 airlines on our site, we’ll help you find the best route. Use Alternative Airlines to search, compare and book flights to New York from wherever you are.
Is New York safe?
Yes, New York City is generally safe to visit in 2025, especially in the areas where most tourists spend their time. Places like Times Square, the Financial District and Central Park (during the day) continue to be popular and well-patrolled.
In fact, the city’s overall crime rate dropped by nearly 3% in 2024. Serious incidents like shootings and homicides have been falling for three years in a row. The subway system also saw fewer reported crimes, and public housing areas reported a noticeable drop too.
If you’re visiting, stick to busy, well-lit areas at night, keep your valuables tucked away, and always use official taxis or rideshares. New York isn’t perfect, but with a bit of street smarts and common sense, you’ll be just fine.