Published on 26 January 2024 Last updated on 9 December 2025
Flying to New York requires good preparation. In this blog you will read practical tips about flight times, airlines, luggage and transportation from the airport. So you know where you stand and start your trip well organized.
From where can you fly to New York?
Flying to New York begins at the airport. Direct flights depart daily from several airports in Europe to John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK). This airport is about 25 kilometers from Manhattan and is easily accessible by public transportation or a cab.
For example, you can fly from Schiphol (Amsterdam), Brussels or Düsseldorf. From Amsterdam and Brussels, it takes an average of eight to eight and a half hours. If you fly from Düsseldorf, the trip usually takes fifteen minutes longer. The return trip is faster, usually six to six and a half hours, because the wind is in your favor then.
You can also fly directly to New York from other major European cities, such as London and Paris. Several direct flights depart daily from London Heathrow, with an average flight time of about eight hours. From Paris Charles de Gaulle, the same is true. These airports offer a wide choice of airlines and departure times, which is useful if you want to be flexible in your schedule.
What are the best airlines to fly to New York?
If you are flying to New York from the Netherlands, Schiphol Airport is often the most logical choice. We recommend choosing a direct flight through reliable airlines such as:
1. KLM
2. Delta Air Lines
3. JetBlue
4. United Airlines
These airlines offer direct flights. You get to your destination faster and avoid transfers, which makes the trip not only shorter but also more comfortable. Transfer flights are often cheaper, but take more time and can be more tiring.
Even from airports such as London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle, you can choose from several airlines that fly directly to New York. British Airways, Air France and American Airlines are popular choices in this regard. These airlines offer similar travel times and comfortable flights, which is convenient if you are departing or transferring from England or France.
What do you need to arrange before departure?
Before you leave, there are a few important things to take care of in time:
1. A valid passport (valid at least until after your stay).
2. A ESTA (visa waiver), which you apply for at least 5 days in advance
3. Your plane ticket
Tip: Book an airport transfer from JFK to your hotel in advance. This avoids hassles after a long flight and makes your arrival in the city a lot more relaxing.
What does a return flight to New York cost?
Prices for a round-trip flight can vary widely. They depend on the season, the airline and when you book. On average, prices are between €450 and €750, including taxes. In low season, you can sometimes get a better deal.
Where can you find cheap flights to New York?
There are several websites where you can book cheap flights to New York. I usually book through Booking.com because the prices are clearly displayed and you can easily filter by time, airline, and transfer. I also appreciate that you can quickly compare prices and that booking is hassle-free.
1. Hand luggage: one piece of hand luggage not exceeding 12 kg (maximum 55 x 40 x 20 cm).
2. Personal item: A small bag or laptop bag that fits under the chair (maximum 35 x 20 x 20 cm)
For checked baggage, you usually pay extra. Count on €200 to €300 per suitcase, depending on the airline. So pay close attention when booking whether check-in baggage is included.
Can you reserve a seat?
Yes, you can choose a seat in advance when flying to New York. You usually pay a small fee for standard seats, but if you want extra legroom, you quickly pay around €100 extra. Especially on long flights, this is often worth it for taller people.
Airport transfers in New York: what's convenient?
From our own experience, we recommend in advance a transferin advance. On our last trip to New York, we opted for a shared shuttle bus through a reliable provider. We did not have to queue for a cab and were taken directly to our hotel. The price was competitive and the comfort fine. A cab or private transfer is faster, but often more expensive. Choose what best suits your budget.
My advice for a flight to New York
Flying to New York is a great experience, but proper preparation is essential. By booking your flight on time, arranging your documents and planning in advance how to get from the airport to your hotel, you will start your trip stress-free. New York awaits you – have fun!
New York Info
Hi, I'm Edward, and I'm crazy about New York and everything that makes this city so special. On New York Info, you'll find my best tips and recommendations for your trip!
Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate New York enthusiast with years of experience exploring the city. Over the past 15 years, I’ve visited New York many times and explored it from north to south. On New York Info, I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and honest recommendations to help you plan your trip to New York City. Have a question? Feel free to send me an email.
Flying to New York: Tips and Info
Flying to New York requires good preparation. In this blog you will read practical tips about flight times, airlines, luggage and transportation from the airport. So you know where you stand and start your trip well organized.
From where can you fly to New York?
Flying to New York begins at the airport. Direct flights depart daily from several airports in Europe to John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK). This airport is about 25 kilometers from Manhattan and is easily accessible by public transportation or a cab.
For example, you can fly from Schiphol (Amsterdam), Brussels or Düsseldorf. From Amsterdam and Brussels, it takes an average of eight to eight and a half hours. If you fly from Düsseldorf, the trip usually takes fifteen minutes longer. The return trip is faster, usually six to six and a half hours, because the wind is in your favor then.
You can also fly directly to New York from other major European cities, such as London and Paris. Several direct flights depart daily from London Heathrow, with an average flight time of about eight hours. From Paris Charles de Gaulle, the same is true. These airports offer a wide choice of airlines and departure times, which is useful if you want to be flexible in your schedule.
What are the best airlines to fly to New York?
If you are flying to New York from the Netherlands, Schiphol Airport is often the most logical choice. We recommend choosing a direct flight through reliable airlines such as:
1. KLM
2. Delta Air Lines
3. JetBlue
4. United Airlines
These airlines offer direct flights. You get to your destination faster and avoid transfers, which makes the trip not only shorter but also more comfortable. Transfer flights are often cheaper, but take more time and can be more tiring.
Even from airports such as London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle, you can choose from several airlines that fly directly to New York. British Airways, Air France and American Airlines are popular choices in this regard. These airlines offer similar travel times and comfortable flights, which is convenient if you are departing or transferring from England or France.
What do you need to arrange before departure?
Before you leave, there are a few important things to take care of in time:
1. A valid passport (valid at least until after your stay).
2. A ESTA (visa waiver), which you apply for at least 5 days in advance
3. Your plane ticket
Tip: Book an airport transfer from JFK to your hotel in advance. This avoids hassles after a long flight and makes your arrival in the city a lot more relaxing.
What does a return flight to New York cost?
Prices for a round-trip flight can vary widely. They depend on the season, the airline and when you book. On average, prices are between €450 and €750, including taxes. In low season, you can sometimes get a better deal.
Where can you find cheap flights to New York?
There are several websites where you can book cheap flights to New York. I usually book through Booking.com because the prices are clearly displayed and you can easily filter by time, airline, and transfer. I also appreciate that you can quickly compare prices and that booking is hassle-free.
How much luggage can you take to New York?
Most airlines allow you to take the following:
1. Hand luggage: one piece of hand luggage not exceeding 12 kg (maximum 55 x 40 x 20 cm).
2. Personal item: A small bag or laptop bag that fits under the chair (maximum 35 x 20 x 20 cm)
For checked baggage, you usually pay extra. Count on €200 to €300 per suitcase, depending on the airline. So pay close attention when booking whether check-in baggage is included.
Can you reserve a seat?
Yes, you can choose a seat in advance when flying to New York. You usually pay a small fee for standard seats, but if you want extra legroom, you quickly pay around €100 extra. Especially on long flights, this is often worth it for taller people.
Airport transfers in New York: what's convenient?
From our own experience, we recommend in advance a transfer in advance. On our last trip to New York, we opted for a shared shuttle bus through a reliable provider. We did not have to queue for a cab and were taken directly to our hotel. The price was competitive and the comfort fine. A cab or private transfer is faster, but often more expensive. Choose what best suits your budget.
My advice for a flight to New York
Flying to New York is a great experience, but proper preparation is essential. By booking your flight on time, arranging your documents and planning in advance how to get from the airport to your hotel, you will start your trip stress-free. New York awaits you – have fun!
New York Info
Hi, I'm Edward, and I'm crazy about New York and everything that makes this city so special. On New York Info, you'll find my best tips and recommendations for your trip!
Special offers transfer to and from JFK Airport
Are you going on a city trip to New York and would you like a transfer to and from JFK Airport, then take advantage of the offers below!
About New York Info
Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate New York enthusiast with years of experience exploring the city. Over the past 15 years, I’ve visited New York many times and explored it from north to south. On New York Info, I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and honest recommendations to help you plan your trip to New York City. Have a question? Feel free to send me an email.
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