List of 13 International Airports in New York (& 3 Best for NYC)

We compiled a list of international airports in New York State so that you understand exactly what your options are when flying in to different parts of the state.

In New York, travelers are spoiled for choice. From bustling hubs serving New York City to regional airports scattered across the state, there’s an option for every journey.

Methodology

To compile this list of international airports in New York, we analyzed several factors, including the airport’s passenger volume, airline presence, proximity to major cities, and the availability of international and domestic flights.

We also considered traveler reviews, operational efficiency, and accessibility to determine the airport’s overall quality and convenience for travelers.

An international airport is defined as one that provides customs and immigration facilities for handling flights arriving from and departing to foreign countries. These airports typically host a combination of domestic and international flights, offering a diverse range of destinations.

Data for this article was sourced from official airport websites, airline schedules, and government transportation databases. Feedback from frequent travelers was also considered to assess the quality of passenger experiences. This approach ensures a comprehensive guide to the international airports of New York State.

The Top 3 International Airports for New York City

1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Nearest Big City: New York City
Major Airlines: Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue, British Airways, Emirates
Location: Check on Google Maps

JFK is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, offering top-notch amenities and serving as a gateway for international and domestic flights.

It primarily serves New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area, handling millions of passengers annually with eight terminals and extensive airline options, making it the top NY international airport.

2. LaGuardia International Airport (LGA)

Nearest Big City: New York City
Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United
Location: Check on Google Maps

LaGuardia is a smaller airport compared to JFK, but it’s highly efficient and focuses on domestic routes. Known for its recent renovations, it offers improved facilities and better passenger experiences.

It primarily serves New York City and the boroughs, providing a convenient option for short-haul travelers.

3. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Nearest Big City: New York City
Major Airlines: United, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada
Location: Check on Google Maps

Located in New Jersey, Newark is a major hub for international and domestic flights. The airport features modern terminals and efficient services, making it an excellent alternative to JFK for travelers heading to New York City and nearby areas. It is particularly favored for international connections and is usually a bit cheaper than flights to JFK.

But, it is just as easy to reach Manhattan from Newark as it is from JFK, as the New Jersey Transit system has trains from the airport right to Midtown Manhattan.

Other International Airports in New York State

4. Albany International Airport (ALB)

Nearest Big City: Albany
Major Airlines: Delta, Southwest, American Airlines, United
Location: Check on Google Maps

Albany International Airport is a midsize airport serving the state capital and nearby regions. Known for its ease of navigation and quick check-in processes, it’s a reliable option for travelers heading to upstate New York.

It primarily connects to major U.S. cities with smooth regional operations.

5. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

Nearest Big City: Buffalo
Major Airlines: JetBlue, American Airlines, Southwest, Delta
Location: Check on Google Maps

Buffalo Niagara International Airport serves Western New York and offers a mix of domestic and limited international flights. Known for its friendly staff and compact layout, it’s a popular choice for travelers visiting Buffalo or exploring nearby Niagara Falls.

6. Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH)

Nearest Big City: Ithaca
Major Airlines: Delta, United
Location: Check on Google Maps

This small regional airport serves Ithaca and the Finger Lakes area. It provides a cozy and efficient experience, with connections to larger hubs like New York City and Washington, D.C., making it ideal for travelers seeking a quieter airport.

It is also the closest international airport of New York for students looking to fly to Cornell, Ithaca College, or Syracuse University.

7. New York Stewart International Airport (SWF)

Nearest Big City: Newburgh
Major Airlines: Allegiant, Delta
Location: Check on Google Maps

New York Stewart International Airport is a small airport catering to the Hudson Valley region. It’s known for its minimal crowds and easy parking, providing a stress-free alternative for travelers flying domestically or internationally.

8. Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG)

Nearest Big City: Niagara Falls
Major Airlines: Spirit Airlines, Allegiant
Location: Check on Google Maps

Primarily serving Niagara Falls and its tourism industry, this small airport handles budget flights and charter services. It’s a convenient choice for those visiting the natural wonder or crossing the border into Canada, making it one of the closest international airport of New York near Canada.

9. Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS)

Nearest Big City: Ogdensburg
Major Airlines: Allegiant
Location: Check on Google Maps

Ogdensburg International Airport is a very small airport offering limited services. It primarily serves travelers in northern New York and provides budget-friendly options for regional and cross-border flights.

10. Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG)

Nearest Big City: Plattsburgh
Major Airlines: Allegiant
Location: Check on Google Maps

Located near the Canadian border, Plattsburgh International Airport markets itself as “Montreal’s U.S. Airport.” It offers a simple and efficient travel experience for both American and Canadian travelers, making it the closest of the international airports in New York State to Canada.

11. Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)

Nearest Big City: Rochester
Major Airlines: Delta, United, American Airlines
Location: Check on Google Maps

This midsize airport serves Rochester and nearby areas with a mix of domestic flights. It’s known for its clean facilities and efficient operations, making it a reliable option for travelers in upstate New York.

12. Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)

Nearest Big City: Syracuse
Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United
Location: Check on Google Maps

Syracuse Hancock International Airport is a key hub for central New York. Offering modern amenities and multiple airline options, it’s well-suited for travelers heading to Syracuse and surrounding cities.

13. Watertown International Airport (ART)

Nearest Big City: Watertown
Major Airlines: American Airlines
Location: Check on Google Maps

Watertown International Airport is probably the smallest international airport of New York. It serves the northernmost parts of New York and is a convenient option for local travelers seeking connections to larger hubs like Philadelphia. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main international airports in New York City?

The top three international airports in New York City are John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia International Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

Which international airport in New York is best for domestic travel?

LaGuardia International Airport (LGA) is a popular choice for domestic flights due to its proximity to Manhattan and focus on domestic routes.

Are there budget airline options at New York’s international airports?

Yes, budget airlines like JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and Allegiant operate at several international airports in New York, offering affordable travel options.