Each year, millions of people take flights to New York City for business or for pleasure. Thanks to the internet, New York City airfares can be booked at the last minute and at a fraction of the price of standard fares. Once you've arranged your New York City flights, it's time to start making your transportation plans and New York City hotel arrangements. Luckily, the airports of New York are very easy to navigate and offer a variety of options for transportation.

There are three airports in the New York metropolitan area: John F. Kennedy Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. Virtually all major airlines offer New York City flights from New York's three airports. John F. Kennedy International Airport is located in Queens, one of the five boroughs in New York City. When arranging New York City flights, plan for a 45 to 60 minute drive from JFK to Manhattan. JFK experiences less delays and usually has shorter security and ticketing lines, making it a favorite choice for flights to New York City.

LaGuardia Airport is located in Queens and is a 30 to 40 minute drive from midtown Manhattan, depending on traffic. If you're flying out of LaGuardia, allow an at least an hour and a half to check in for your flight. LaGuardia is notorious for long ticket counter and security lines as well as frequent delays.

Newark Liberty International airport is located in the neighboring state of New Jersey, around sixteen miles from midtown Manhattan. Although the airport is in a different state, it's a convenient option if you're traveling to Manhattan. Traffic is usually less congested in New Jersey and flight delays aren't as frequent at the airport. New York City airfares to Newark airport are usually cheaper than flights arriving at LaGuardia and JFK, making Newark airport a great option for cheap flights to New York City. Expect your cab ride from Newark Airport to Manhattan to take around 45 minutes.

Visitors taking flights to New York City from another country should be prepared to undergo a lengthy customs and immigration process. Due to heightened airport security, clearing customs can take an hour or more. It's a good idea to know what kind of immigration forms you're required to fill out prior to taking New York City flights. Many airlines will provide the necessary forms on the flight and will provide passengers with assistance filling out the forms prior to landing.

If you've just booked your family's cheap flights to New York City, you're probably concerned about transportation to and from the airport. All three of the major airports in New York City provide access to trains that will connect you with with NYC burroughs such as the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. The trains can also connect you to Long Island and neighboring New England states such as Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. LaGuardia and JFK are connected to New York by the subway system. Although taking the subway is an inexpensive option, the subway can become extremely congested during rush hour times. If you have a lot of luggage, you may want to consider traveling by taxi instead.

It's possible to find cheap flights to New York City any time of year. New York City airfares are usually cheaper if you depart on Wednesdays or Thursdays and return on a Monday. New York City airfares are also cheaper in November, December, and January. Regardless of when you decide to take your New York vacation, make sure to reserve your tickets early.