Our focus is on verified, current details that help travelers plan confidently. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, this guide will give you a clear picture of what to expect at LaGuardia Airport and how to make the most of your time there.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Overview

Address: 9400 Ditmars Blvd, East Elmhurst, Queens, New York 11369, USA

Phone Info: 

Main: (718) 533-3400 

Port Authority contact for LGA: (718) 533-3935 

Parking / customer service: (718) 533-3850

LaGuardia Airport is located in the East Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, along Flushing Bay. It is owned by the City of New York and operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

The airport first opened to the public in December 1939 and quickly became an important hub for domestic flights. Over the decades, LaGuardia grew in significance but was often criticized for its outdated facilities. A massive redevelopment project launched in the mid-2010s transformed the airport, and by early 2025 most of the new terminals and infrastructure were completed, offering passengers a much more modern experience.

In 2024, LaGuardia handled more than 33 million passengers with over 350,000 aircraft operations. Delta is the leading carrier at the airport, followed by American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, United and Spirit. The most popular nonstop destinations include Chicago O’Hare, Atlanta, Miami, Dallas/Fort Worth and Orlando. Due to its limited space and proximity to residential neighborhoods, LaGuardia operates under unique restrictions:

Perimeter rule: Nonstop flights are generally limited to 1,500 miles, with occasional exceptions on Saturdays.

Slot control: Airlines must obtain specific takeoff and landing slots, limiting the number of flights.

Noise and curfew policies: Operational restrictions are in place during certain late-night hours to minimize noise impact and manage congestion.

LaGuardia has earned recognition for its transformation. Terminal B became the first terminal in North America to receive a 5-star rating from Skytrax, while the airport overall holds a 4-star rating for facilities, cleanliness, and customer service. In 2025, it was also recognized by the global Airport Service Quality survey as one of the best airports in its passenger category, highlighting the success of its modernization.

Terminals and Airport Layout

LaGuardia Airport is made up of three active terminals: A, B and C. They are not directly connected airside, so passengers who need to move between terminals must exit and re-enter through security. Curbside shuttle buses are available to help travelers transfer, and the terminals are clearly marked for ease of navigation.

Terminal A – Marine Air Terminal

Terminal A, also known as the Marine Air Terminal, is the oldest part of LaGuardia, opening in 1939. It was originally built for seaplane operations and still retains much of its historic Art Deco character. Today, it mainly serves regional flights. JetBlue is the primary airline using this terminal, offering frequent service to Boston and a few other East Coast destinations.

Pros: Short lines, easy check-in, and a quieter atmosphere compared to larger terminals.

Cons: Limited flight options, fewer food and shopping choices.

Terminal B

Terminal B is the largest facility at LaGuardia and recently underwent a major redesign as part of the airport’s redevelopment. It now features spacious concourses, modern architecture, improved security lanes, and more dining and retail options. Airlines operating from Terminal B include American Airlines, Southwest, United and Air Canada. With four concourses, it handles a wide variety of domestic flights. Passengers will also find pay-per-use lounges and upgraded amenities here.

Terminal C

Terminal C, now fully integrated with the former Terminal D, serves as Delta’s primary hub at LaGuardia. This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2022 and offers a premium travel experience, including a large Delta Sky Club with an outdoor terrace, upgraded gate areas, improved security processing and more dining options. Most Delta and Delta Connection flights operate from here, making it the busiest of the three terminals.

Navigation Tips

• Passengers should always check their boarding pass for the terminal number before arriving.

• Walking between terminals is not possible inside security, so plan extra time if transferring.

• Shuttle buses run regularly between terminals and parking areas.

• The terminals are accessible with ramps, elevators and ADA-compliant pathways for travelers with reduced mobility.

How to Transfer Between Terminals

LaGuardia Airport makes it easy to move between terminals with a free shuttle bus service. The shuttle connects all terminals (A, B, and C), as well as parking lots, rental car areas, and pick-up zones.

How Does It Work?

Look for the shuttle bus signs inside your terminal. Stops are clearly marked.

The buses run often throughout the day, so you don’t have to wait long.

You can ride the bus to any other terminal, parking garage, or transport area.

The ride itself is short, usually just a few minutes between terminals.

Important Tips

Even though the bus ride is quick, give yourself extra time in case of traffic or crowds.

If you change terminals for a connecting flight, you will need to go through security again.

Luggage carts are allowed, but it’s easier to travel light when moving between terminals.

With this service, you don’t need a taxi or ride share—just follow the signs and hop on the free bus.

Airlines at LaGuardia International Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens, New York, serves as one of the busiest airports in the United States, primarily offering domestic flights along with select international services to Canada. The airport is organized across multiple terminals (A, B, and C), with each terminal hosting specific airlines. Below is the official list of airlines currently operating at LaGuardia, categorized by their terminal assignments.

Getting To and From LGA (Ground Transportation)

LaGuardia Airport is well connected to New York City, though unlike JFK and Newark, it does not have a direct rail or subway link. Travelers have several ground transportation options depending on budget, convenience, and time of day.

By Car and Driving Directions

LaGuardia is located in Queens, just off the Grand Central Parkway. Signs for the airport are clear from all major approaches, including I-278 (Brooklyn-Queens Expressway) and I-678 (Van Wyck Expressway). Driving time to Manhattan can range from 20 minutes in light traffic to more than an hour during peak rush hours.

Curbside Drop-Off and Pick-Up

Passengers can be dropped off directly outside each terminal at the departures level. For pick-ups, private cars must wait in designated parking or cell phone lots since idling at the arrivals curb is strictly enforced. Using the “cell phone waiting area” near Terminal A is the easiest way to avoid circling until your passenger is ready.

Parking Options

Short-Term Parking: Available near each terminal, ideal for pick-ups or drop-offs. Rates are higher per hour but convenient for brief visits.

Long-Term Parking: On-site garages and lots are available for daily or multi-day use, with shuttle connections to terminals.

Garage Facilities: The Terminal B parking garage offers direct pedestrian access to the terminal.

Advance booking is recommended, especially during holidays and peak travel weeks, to secure a space and better rates.

Shuttle Services

Free shuttle buses run frequently between terminals, parking lots, and rental car facilities. Offsite private parking operators also provide shuttle service to and from their lots, often at lower daily rates.

Taxi, Ride-Hail and For-Hire Vehicles

Taxis are available at every terminal, with dispatchers managing the queues. A ride to Manhattan typically costs around $30–$45, depending on traffic, plus tolls and tip. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft have designated pick-up areas; follow terminal signs to reach the correct zone. Fares can be similar to taxis but may surge during busy times.

Public Transit Options

• Several MTA bus routes serve LaGuardia, connecting to the subway system and Long Island Rail Road:

• M60 Select Bus links all terminals to Astoria, Harlem, and major subway lines.

• Q70 Select Bus (LaGuardia Link) runs non-stop to Jackson Heights and Woodside, with easy transfers to the 7, E, F, M, R subway lines and the LIRR.

• Local buses such as the Q48 also connect nearby neighborhoods.

• Pay with a MetroCard or OMNY contactless system for convenience. Travel time to Manhattan averages 40–60 minutes depending on traffic.

Rail and Subway Link Proposals

LaGuardia has long lacked a direct rail connection. A planned AirTrain project was proposed but canceled in 2023 after community and environmental concerns. Current alternatives focus on strengthening bus connections and improving road access instead of building a new rail line.

Flat Rate and Shared Ride Services

Some shuttle operators and private van companies offer shared ride services to Manhattan, Brooklyn, or hotels around New York City. These are more affordable than private taxis, though travel time may be longer due to multiple stops.

Traveler Tips

• For the fastest trip to Manhattan during rush hour, consider the Q70 bus to the subway, as it avoids highway gridlock.

• If carrying heavy luggage, a taxi or ride-hail may be worth the extra cost.

• Pre-book parking online if driving to the airport to avoid last-minute stress.

• Always confirm pick-up locations for Uber, Lyft, or car services, as each terminal has its own designated zone.

Parking Options at LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia Airport offers different types of parking, including garages near the terminals, prepaid reserved parking, and economy long-term lots. A free shuttle bus connects the parking areas with all terminals.

Payment Methods, Rules & Policies

Parking can be pre-booked online for most garages and lots.

Entry is managed by license plate recognition or QR code scanning.

If you overstay your reserved time, you will be charged at drive-up rates.

Bookings can be changed or canceled up to 24 hours before entry (with a small fee).

Disabled parking cannot be reserved in advance; you must use drive-up lanes with a valid permit.

Terminal B does not accept cash at most machines; Terminal C/D has limited cash-accepting machines.

E-ZPass Plus is accepted in some lanes.

If you lose your ticket, assistance is available at the exit gates.

Destinations Served by LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) mainly serves domestic flights across the United States, with a few international routes to Canada. The airport is especially busy with flights to the East Coast, but it also connects to the Midwest, South, West Coast, and beyond. Below is the complete list of nonstop destinations divided by region.

Northeast & New England

Albany, NY

Boston, MA

Buffalo, NY

Burlington, VT

Hartford, CT

Portland, ME

Providence, RI

Rochester, NY

Syracuse, NY

Worcester, MA

Mid-Atlantic

Baltimore, MD

Philadelphia, PA

Pittsburgh, PA

Washington, D.C. (DCA / IAD)

Southeast

Amelia Island, FL

Asheville, NC

Charleston, SC

Charlotte, NC

Columbia, SC

Greenville / Spartanburg, SC

Jacksonville, FL

Miami, FL

Orlando, FL

Palm Beach, FL

Pensacola, FL

Raleigh / Durham, NC

Savannah, GA

Tampa, FL

West Palm Beach, FL

Wilmington, NC

South & Gulf States

Atlanta, GA

Augusta, GA

Baton Rouge, LA

Birmingham, AL

Chattanooga, TN

Knoxville, TN

Louisville, KY

Memphis, TN

Nashville, TN

New Orleans, LA

Midwest

Appleton, WI

Chicago, IL (ORD / MDW)

Cincinnati, OH

Cleveland, OH

Columbus, OH

Dayton, OH

Detroit, MI

Indianapolis, IN

Kansas City, MO

Lansing, MI

Lexington, KY

Madison, WI

Milwaukee, WI

Minneapolis / St. Paul, MN

St. Louis, MO

West & Mountain States

Albuquerque, NM

Denver, CO

Phoenix, AZ

Salt Lake City, UT

Seattle / Tacoma, WA

Florida & Gulf Coast (Leisure Focus)

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Myers, FL

Sarasota, FL

West Coast

Los Angeles, CA

International (Canada)

Montreal, QC

Toronto, ON

LaGuardia (LGA) Arrival and Departure Process

1) Check-In & Bag Drop

You can check in before arriving by using your airline’s website or mobile app. At the airport, each terminal (A, B, C) has self-service kiosks and airline counters. If you have checked luggage, you go to the bag drop counters, where staff will tag your bags and send them onward. Always check your airline’s baggage size and weight limits ahead of time.

2) Recommended Arrival Times

Domestic (within U.S.): Arrive about 2 hours before your flight, especially during busy times.

International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure to allow extra time for security.

Because LaGuardia can get busy, especially in the mornings and evenings, giving yourself buffer time is wise.

3) Security Screening

After check-in/bag drop, you go through TSA security screening.

Show your boarding pass and ID.

Put shoes, belt, and outer clothes in bins.

Place laptop and liquids in separate trays.

Proceed through the screening gates.

LaGuardia posts estimated wait times for security at checkpoint entrances and on its website, so you can plan.

4) (No U.S. Preclearance at LGA)

Unlike some airports, LaGuardia does not have U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facilities. Because of this:

International flights that come to LGA must depart from airports that do U.S. preclearance in advance.

Once you land at LGA, you do not go through customs/immigration because you are already “in the U.S.”

5) Arrival Process & Baggage Claim

On arrival (for domestic or connecting flights), follow signs to Baggage Claim / Arrivals in your terminal. Collect your checked luggage from the assigned carousel. Then you exit to ground transportation, taxis, rideshares, or meet friends/family at the curbside.

6) Connecting Flights

If you are connecting to another flight:

Follow the “Connections” signs in the terminal.

You may need to go through security again, depending on your routing.

If you must move between terminals (A, B, C), use the free on-airport shuttle bus. The terminals are not linked internally, so you cannot walk between them

.

Check-in, Security and Immigration

Travelers flying from LaGuardia are advised to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and a little earlier if they are connecting through another hub. Most major airlines at the airport, including Delta, American, JetBlue, and United, allow passengers to check in online or through mobile apps, which can save valuable time at the terminal. Self-service kiosks are also widely available in each terminal for printing boarding passes and bag tags. Ticketing counters and bag drop stations are located in the departure halls of Terminals A, B, and C, with staff on hand to assist passengers who need additional help.

Security screening at LaGuardia is overseen by the Transportation Security Administration. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day, with mornings and evenings often being the busiest. To speed up the process, travelers should have identification and boarding passes ready, remove electronics larger than a phone from their bags, and place liquids in approved containers. Families traveling with children, as well as passengers with special medical needs, can request extra assistance. Travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck or using CLEAR lanes generally move through faster, while the TSA Cares program provides guidance for those requiring special accommodations.

Although LaGuardia primarily handles domestic flights, some limited international services are available to nearby destinations in Canada and the Caribbean. In these cases, passengers clear U.S. immigration and customs at their arrival airport rather than at LaGuardia. The airport itself does not have full immigration facilities like JFK or Newark. As a result, travelers heading abroad from LaGuardia should pay careful attention to connecting times at their onward airport and be prepared to go through border inspection at their final international gateway.

Facilities, Services and Amenities

Lounges

LaGuardia offers several lounges across its terminals, including Delta Sky Club in Terminal C, American Admirals Club in Terminal B, and Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge. Terminal B also has pay-per-use lounges such as the Chase Sapphire Lounge and Amex Centurion Lounge. These lounges provide comfortable seating, complimentary food, drinks, WiFi, and quiet spaces to relax before flights.

WiFi and Charging Stations

Free, unlimited high-speed WiFi is available throughout the airport. Travelers can also find plenty of charging stations near seating areas, gates, and dining spots, ensuring devices remain powered while waiting. Terminal B and Terminal C feature modern workstations with outlets and USB ports, making it easy for business travelers to catch up on work or stay connected.

Restrooms, Nursing Rooms and Family Facilities

Each terminal includes updated restrooms with accessible stalls and family-friendly layouts. Nursing rooms are available in Terminals B and C, offering private spaces with comfortable seating and sinks for parents traveling with infants. Family restrooms and changing tables are conveniently located throughout the airport, making travel easier for parents and caregivers with small children.

Shops and Retail Options

LaGuardia provides a wide variety of shopping choices, from travel essentials and bookstores to fashion boutiques and electronics outlets. Passengers can browse national brands like MAC, Hudson, and Brookstone, along with locally inspired shops highlighting New York merchandise. While the airport does not have full duty-free shopping, retail offerings continue to expand as redevelopment projects progress.

Food and Dining

Travelers will find an extensive mix of dining options across terminals, ranging from quick grab-and-go counters to sit-down restaurants. Terminal B hosts Shake Shack, Dos Toros, and La Chula, while Terminal C features H&H Bagels and Biergarten. Many outlets highlight New York’s food culture, giving passengers a chance to enjoy regional favorites before boarding their flights.

Banking, ATMs and Currency Exchange

ATMs are located in every terminal for convenient cash withdrawals, and major credit cards are widely accepted. Currency exchange services are available in Terminal B, catering to travelers heading to nearby international destinations. Several self-service kiosks also provide quick financial transactions, ticket printing, or information access, adding flexibility for passengers who need last-minute arrangements.

Baggage Services

LaGuardia provides lost and found offices, baggage claim assistance, and airline support counters across terminals. While the airport does not currently offer baggage storage lockers, services such as luggage wrapping are available through private operators. Travelers who misplace items should contact the Port Authority Lost and Found or their airline’s baggage service desk for recovery support.

Medical and First Aid

Travelers have access to first aid stations and emergency medical support within the terminals. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are placed throughout the airport, and staff are trained to assist in emergencies. A pharmacy kiosk in Terminal B provides basic medications and travel essentials. For serious health issues, nearby hospitals in Queens are easily accessible by taxi or ambulance.

Pet Relief Areas

LaGuardia has dedicated pet relief areas both inside and outside terminals. These spaces feature artificial turf, waste bags, and disposal stations, making it easier for travelers flying with pets or service animals. Terminal B and Terminal C have indoor relief zones past security, ensuring convenience without requiring passengers to exit and re-enter security screening.

Art and Passenger Experience Enhancements

The airport features several art installations and exhibits that reflect New York’s culture and history. Rotating displays and permanent artworks in Terminal B’s concourses add visual appeal to the passenger journey. Other enhancements include improved lighting, high ceilings, spacious waiting areas, and modern signage, which collectively create a brighter, more welcoming environment for travelers navigating the airport.

Restaurants at LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia has invested heavily in dining over the past few years. Today, it’s known as one of the better U.S. airports for food variety. Each terminal offers its own collection of quick-service counters, sit-down eateries, and local New York favorites.

Terminal A

Salotto: Classic New York–style pizza by the slice, plus sandwiches and salads.

Dunkin’: Coffee, donuts, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches for travelers on short regional flights.

Terminal B (Main Dining Hub)

Shake Shack: Iconic burgers, fries, and shakes.

Hill Country BBQ: Texas-style smoked meats, ribs, and sides.

Dos Toros Taqueria: Fresh tacos, burritos, and Mexican street food.

Mulberry Street by Marc Forgione: Elevated Italian-American dishes from a celebrity chef.

Junior’s: Comfort food and New York’s most famous cheesecake.

Irving Farm Coffee Roasters: Specialty coffee, light bites, and pastries.

Beecher’s Market Café: Known for artisan cheeses and sandwiches.

Tony + Benny’s Pizza Parlor: Traditional New York pizza.

Terminal C

H&H Bagels: Legendary NYC bagels with spreads and sandwiches.

Magnolia Bakery: Famous cupcakes and banana pudding.

Flatiron Tavern & Provisions: Tavern-style meals with a wide drink menu.

Bubby’s: Comfort food with a homestyle touch.

Cotto: Italian trattoria specializing in pasta and pizzas.

Juice Press: Organic juices, smoothies, and healthy snacks.

Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast, a sit-down meal with a cocktail, or a sweet treat before boarding, LaGuardia’s restaurant scene now rivals the best airport dining in the country.

Shopping at LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia’s shopping experience blends convenience with local character. While it isn’t as massive as international airports, it covers all the essentials plus a few unique finds.

Convenience & Essentials

• Cibo Express Gourmet Market: Snacks, sandwiches, bottled drinks, and quick meals.

• Hudson News: Books, magazines, newspapers, and travel accessories.

• Travel Essentials Stores: Phone chargers, headphones, neck pillows, and toiletries

Fashion & Accessories

• Sunglass outlets, jewelry stands, and accessory shops for last-minute style upgrades

Health & Beauty

• Small shops with skincare products, travel-sized toiletries, over-the-counter medicine, and wellness items

Local & Specialty

• Gift shops showcasing New York-themed souvenirs, artisan food, and local specialties.

• Stalls with gourmet treats like chocolates, cookies, or locally roasted coffee.

Notes on Shopping at LGA

• Most shops open early and stay open late, adjusting to flight schedules.

• Duty-free shopping is limited because LGA mainly serves domestic and Canadian routes.

• Shopping options are most extensive in Terminal B, but all terminals provide at least convenience and newsstand choices.

Hotels Near LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

LaGuardia sits in Queens, just a short drive from Manhattan, and is surrounded by hotels tailored to air travelers. Whether you want luxury, comfort, or affordability, you’ll find it within a few minutes of the terminals.

Closest Full-Service Hotels

• New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott – Less than a mile from the airport. Offers free shuttle, spacious rooms, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and conference space.

• Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport – Trendy hotel with stylish rooms, a bar/lounge, and regular shuttle service.

Comfortable Mid-Range Options

• Hampton Inn New York – LaGuardia Airport – Reliable comfort, free breakfast, airport shuttle, and family-friendly amenities.

• DoubleTree by Hilton New York LaGuardia Airport – Known for its warm cookies at check-in, good dining options, and a free shuttle.

• Hyatt Place Flushing / LaGuardia – Located a little farther in Flushing, with spacious rooms and access to nearby restaurants.

Budget-Friendly Choices

• Ibis Styles New York LaGuardia – Colorful, affordable, and just minutes away.

• Holiday Inn Express Maspeth – A short drive with basic amenities, good for overnight stays.

Tips for Booking Near LGA

• Confirm shuttle service details: some run 24/7, others operate only during flight hours.

• Ask about early check-in or late checkout, especially for red-eye connections.

• If staying in Flushing or Jackson Heights, you’ll also have access to great local food scenes.
  
  

With choices ranging from upscale Marriott stays to affordable express hotels, passengers at LaGuardia can easily find a hotel that matches their budget, schedule, and comfort needs.

Tips for Layovers and Connections

LaGuardia is not designed as a major connecting hub, but connections are possible. Since the terminals are separate, passengers must exit and re-clear security if switching between airlines located in different terminals, so plan extra time. A free shuttle bus links all terminals, but it can take 15–20 minutes during busy hours.

For a comfortable layover, travelers should allow at least 90 minutes for a same-terminal connection and two hours if moving between terminals. Lounges in Terminal B and C provide quiet rest areas, food, and WiFi. If you prefer not to use a lounge, seating near the food courts and upgraded waiting areas offer decent alternatives.

Dining options such as Shake Shack, H&H Bagels, and La Chula are favorites during layovers, while coffee shops are located throughout. Avoid very tight connections, especially during morning and evening rush hours when shuttle buses and security lines are slowest.

Accessibility, Special Needs and Family Travel

LaGuardia complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, offering wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, elevators, and curbside drop-off areas. Passengers needing help should request mobility assistance through their airline in advance, with staff available curbside and at ticket counters.

Families benefit from dedicated nursing rooms, family restrooms, and stroller-friendly pathways in Terminals B and C. While play areas are limited, most terminals have kid-friendly dining options and lounges with family seating. Parents are advised to pack activities for children since entertainment spaces are modest.

For elderly travelers or those with medical conditions, staff support is available through TSA Cares, which can guide passengers through security. Quiet rooms and sensory-friendly areas also exist in newer terminals, providing calm spaces for passengers who prefer reduced noise and crowds.

Safety, Delays and Disruptions

LaGuardia is known for congestion and occasional delays, especially during early mornings, evenings, and peak holiday travel. To minimize disruptions, consider mid-day flights when air traffic is lighter.

Winter weather can cause cancellations due to snow or ice, while summer thunderstorms often affect schedules. Travelers should check airline alerts frequently and allow flexibility when traveling during these seasons. Emergency services are on-site, and information desks provide immediate support for urgent situations.

Security alerts and travel advisories are posted through the airport’s official channels. If a connection is missed, airlines usually rebook passengers on the next available flight, but back-up plans such as checking alternate flights from JFK or Newark can help avoid extended delays.

Insider Tips and Secrets

Travelers praise Terminal B for its dining options, while Delta’s Terminal C offers some of the newest restaurants and lounges. Shake Shack and H&H Bagels are standouts for quick meals.

For great views and photography, the Marine Air Terminal (A) has historic architecture and quieter gate areas. Spotters also recommend seating near certain windows in Terminal C for runway views.

Curbside drop-off is usually less crowded at Terminal A compared to B or C. Some travelers also use family lanes or priority security lanes, when eligible, to cut wait times. Arriving early in the afternoon often avoids the longest lines, while evenings are the busiest.

Comparisons and Alternatives

LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark serve the New York area, each with its own strengths. LaGuardia is closest to Manhattan, making it the best option for quick domestic trips. JFK is ideal for international flights and offers more modern connections, while Newark provides strong United Airlines service and direct rail links.

LaGuardia is the preferred choice for travelers wanting speed and convenience to Manhattan, but those seeking global routes or wide-body aircraft should consider JFK or Newark. Some travelers avoid LGA during peak hours or winter months due to delays and congestion.

Looking ahead, competition between the three airports continues to shape upgrades, with LaGuardia’s redevelopment setting a new standard for passenger experience in New York City.

Future Plans and Upgrades

LaGuardia’s multi-billion-dollar redevelopment is nearly complete, with new concourses, modern lounges, and enhanced passenger facilities already in use. Ongoing projects aim to improve traffic flow around the airport and expand parking availability.

Although a proposed AirTrain link was canceled in 2023, state and local officials continue to evaluate other transit improvements, including expanded bus service and potential rail alternatives.

Sustainability is a growing focus, with energy-efficient terminal designs, improved waste management, and electric shuttle buses. Future upgrades may also include biometric boarding systems, expanded touchless check-in, and additional technology aimed at making travel through LGA more seamless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is LaGuardia Airport international?

LaGuardia is primarily a domestic airport, though it does offer limited international flights to nearby destinations such as Canada and certain Caribbean islands. Passengers traveling abroad usually clear customs and immigration at their final destination rather than at LGA.

How long does it take to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan?

Travel time from LaGuardia to Manhattan varies by mode of transport and traffic conditions. By taxi or rideshare, the trip can take 20–30 minutes in light traffic and up to an hour during peak rush. Public transit using the Q70 bus and subway takes about 45–60 minutes.

Is there a train or subway to LaGuardia?

LaGuardia does not have a direct train or subway connection. The closest option is the Q70 Select Bus, which links the airport with subway lines at Jackson Heights and Woodside. From there, travelers can connect to the 7, E, F, M, and R trains or the Long Island Rail Road.

What airlines fly out of LaGuardia?

Major airlines at LGA include Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue, United, Southwest, and Spirit. Air Canada also operates flights to Toronto and Montreal. Delta and American are the largest carriers at the airport, handling most of the passenger traffic.

What is the best time to fly from LaGuardia?

Midday flights typically face fewer delays compared to early mornings and evenings, which are the busiest times for departures and arrivals. If possible, book flights outside peak commuting hours to minimize travel stress and reduce the chance of congestion-related delays.