Your Guide to LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Located on the northern part of New York City’s borough of Queens, LaGuardia Airport (LGA) has been busily transporting airline passengers since, essentially, the 1930s. Over time, it has been developed and transformed into a major regional hub for airlines flying throughout the domestic US, Canada, and the Caribbean. Ongoing construction will result in an updated and modern airport experience but currently creating congestion and headaches for passengers (acknowledged and managed by the airport authority). Read on for ways to navigate LGA (and most importantly, remember to allow for extra early arrival times pre-flight on busy travel days, especially over the summer!):
GETTING TO LGA
Because of LaGuardia’s central location to New York City’s boroughs, it is utilized by over 30 million passengers a year. Public transportation includes the popular New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) which provides bus routes to LGA from multiple locations throughout the area. There are also convenient drop-off and pick up locations for shared and private car services, as well as taxi stands.
With the current construction at LGA, taxi stands have been shifted to temporary areas – travelers must note that certain taxi stands are located outside the walkable area of LGA, but shuttle buses are on hand to take people to terminals from the taxi stands. As always, parking is readily available – travelers are encouraged to check the airport website for availability and to pre-book parking.
ON-SITE
Due to its size (but mainly due to the ongoing construction, which is slated to be complete by mid-2020), it’s important for travelers to get a handle on how to navigate LGA. Online maps are provided for the entire airport as well as for each terminal, and, you can download the map so you have it on hand.
WiFi is provided free of charge for all travelers, and there are charging stations and outlets provided throughout the airport.
Restaurants, services, and other amenities are outlined and arranged by topic and terminal here, and it makes planning out what you can find to eat and drink (and do!) very easy.
Finally, if you need to get to different terminals if you have a layover, there is an onsite bus system, with directions, wait times, and helpful information located here.
THE FUTURE OF LGA
With over $8 billion invested in the redevelopment of LGA, the airport is the “most significant airport project” in the United States in 20 years. Future designs and plans are outlined here. Keep checking and traveling through LGA to grasp how it will look and operate in the coming years.