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how long is a flight to new york

How Long is the Flight from London to New York? (2024 Guide)

So, you’re heading to New York from London? Great choice! But you’re probably wondering how long the flight is going to take. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything – from selecting the best airline to navigating New York’s airports.

Let’s get started!

london heathrow

The Duration of Flights from London to New York

When planning your trip to New York, considering the new York flight duration is important.

Flight durations from London to New York can vary depending on factors such as direct or connecting flights, layovers, and airline choice. Non-stop flights typically take around 7 to 9 hours.

However, flights from New York returning to London Heathrow Airport approximately take 8 hours and 15 minutes, while those arriving at London City Airport and London Gatwick Airport may have slightly different durations.

The Fastest Flight Time on Direct Routes

Taking a direct flight from London to New York is usually the fastest option, with direct flights taking around 7 hours and 35 minutes.

However, this time can slightly vary as some airlines have slightly longer flight durations.

how long is a flight to new york

Longer Journeys: Connecting Flight Options

Travellers who opt for connecting flights should anticipate longer travel times.

Connecting flights can take anywhere from 13 to 18 hours, depending on layover duration and chosen route.

Some popular connecting cities on the London to New York route include:

  • Boston
  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco
  • San Jose, California

These stopovers can provide an opportunity to explore additional destinations or simply relax before continuing your journey.

Impact of Layovers on Your Travel Time

Layovers can noticeably extend travel time, sometimes adding several hours to your journey. The average layover time for flights from London to New York ranges between 1.5 to 14 hours.

However, it’s important to remember that layover durations are subject to change, and it’s best to consult with the airline for the most accurate information.

Depending on your preferences, a layover can be a welcome break or an inconvenience, so choose your flights wisely.

london to new york

A Closer Look at New York’s Airports

Upon reaching New York, you’ll typically touchdown at either John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport, or La Guardia Airport (LGA), the city’s main airports.

Both JFK and LGA offer a range of amenities and facilities to enhance your travel experience. JFK is approximately 10 miles east of Prospect Park and 17 miles from the Brooklyn Bridge, while LGA is closer to the city centre.

In terms of facilities, JFK airport provides baggage storage, an interfaith chapel, nursing stations, pet relief areas, currency exchanges, airport lounges, Wi-Fi, nearby hotels, and car rental services.

La Guardia Airport, on the other hand, offers useful services, a fitness centre, gift shops, laundry/dry cleaning services, restaurants, bars, and hotels.

flight time from london to new york

Securing Cheap Tickets to New York

Planning in advance is key to securing affordable tickets to New York.

Here are some tips to help you find the best deals:

  • Reserve flights at least three months ahead of time.
  • Look for flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, as these days often have the most economical prices.
  • Avoid flying during busy periods such as weekends, holidays, or school breaks, as these times typically have higher ticket prices.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding cheap flights to New York.

To find the best deals on flights, consider using flight comparison tools such as KAYAK, Skyscanner, Expedia, Cheapflights, and Momondo to find cheap flights.

These platforms can help you compare prices, airlines, and schedules to find the ideal flight tickets for your needs and budget.

average flight time london to new york

Flight Schedules and Frequency

Knowing the frequency and schedules of flights from London to New York can be beneficial when planning your trip. Here are some key details:

  • There are approximately 27 flights from London to New York per day.
  • The majority of these flights are scheduled to depart in the morning.
  • The flight duration is around seven to eight hours.

Seasonal variations can also affect flight schedules, with the summer season running from March to October and the winter season from October to March.

Airlines may adjust their schedules to meet seasonal demand, so it’s essential to check with your chosen airline for the most up-to-date information on flight times and availability.

london to new york

Preparing for Your New York Holiday

Before setting off on your New York holiday, make sure you have everything for an enjoyable and hassle-free trip. Be sure to pack:

  • Clothing suitable for the climate
  • A jacket or coat (depending on the season)
  • Comfortable shoes for walking
  • A valid ID/Driver’s License
  • Printed museum tickets
  • A purse/wallet
  • Additional funds
  • A camera

Also, it’s crucial to be aware of the time zone difference, with New York being 5 hours behind London.

Additionally, make sure you have the necessary travel documents for your journey. An Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) is required for air travel from London to New York.

By preparing in advance, you’ll be ready to make the most of your time in the Big Apple.

direct flight to new york

Flight Time Variations and Factors

Several factors such as flight delays, technical issues, air traffic congestion, or the type of aircraft can impact the overall flying time from London to New York.

Weather conditions can also have a significant impact on flight times, with strong jet streams, storms, and adverse weather conditions potentially affecting the duration of the flight.

The type of aircraft can also play a role in flight durations, although the average flight time is usually around 8 hours, regardless of the aircraft type.

Air traffic congestion can lead to delays when there’s a high concentration of air traffic, as aircraft may be required to spend extended periods in holding patterns or wait on the ground before take-off.

By understanding these factors, you can better anticipate any potential disruptions to your travel plans.

average flight time london to new york

Comparing Top Airlines for London-New York Route

Consider factors like reliability, customer ratings, and punctuality when selecting an airline for your London-New York journey.

KLM, Virgin Atlantic, and Delta are deemed the most dependable airlines for punctuality.

In terms of customer ratings, SWISS, Delta, and KLM are highly rated for the London-New York route.

Virgin Atlantic offers a comprehensive selection of amenities on its London to New York flights, including premium cuisine and beverages, access to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse lounge, and more.

Delta’s customer service has been positively appraised, with passengers commending the economy service and amenities provided on this route.

By comparing top airlines, you can make an informed decision and choose the right airline for your needs.

flight time from london to new york

Onboard Amenities and Services

Airlines cater to their passengers by offering a variety of onboard amenities and services on the London to New York route.

British Airways provides complimentary drinks, including soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages.

Virgin Atlantic offers in-flight entertainment, complimentary meals and beverages, Wi-Fi connectivity, and comfortable seating options.

Delta Airlines serves meals from top U.S. restaurants in Delta One on premium coast-to-coast routes, as well as beverages such as tea, coffee, Coca-Cola mini cans, and juices available in all cabins of the plane.

United Airlines offers Wi-Fi service on its route from London to New York, with the cost usually ranging from $8 to $10.

These amenities and services can greatly enhance your travel experience and help make your flight more enjoyable.

new york flights

From Airport to City Centre: Arrival in New York

Once you arrive in New York, you’ll need to find your way from the airport to the city centre.

From JFK airport, public transportation options include the subway, commuter train, bus, and taxi. The average travel time via public transportation is approximately 60-90 minutes by subway and 35 minutes by commuter train.

From Newark airport, public transportation options include NJ Transit Bus/Express Bus, shuttle buses and shared vans, and trains (NJ Transit or Amtrak).

From LaGuardia airport, public transportation options include:

  • Taxi
  • Car rental
  • Private driver
  • MTA bus and subway system

By familiarising yourself with these transportation options, you can ensure a smooth and efficient journey from the airport to the city centre and begin exploring New York’s many attractions.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the various factors that affect flight durations, navigating New York’s airports, and comparing top airlines for the London-New York route are essential steps in planning your journey.

By securing cheap tickets, preparing for your adventure, and being aware of the onboard amenities and services offered by airlines, you can make the most of your time in the vibrant city of New York.

So, get ready to take off and create unforgettable memories in the Big Apple!

Further Reading: The Top 10 Cheap Hotels in New York City.

flight time from london to new york

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we answer the most common questions about London-New York flights.

Is London to New York long haul?

Yes, the route from London to New York is considered a long haul flight and typically takes around 8 hours. It is served by six different airlines including American Airlines, British Airways, Air India, Delta Air Lines, Kuwait Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

How long is the flight from Manchester to New York no stops?

It takes approximately 7-8 hours to fly from Manchester to New York, a distance of 3,331 miles (5,360 km).

How can I find cheap flights from London to New York?

Booking in advance, travelling during off-peak times, and using flight comparison tools like KAYAK, Skyscanner, Expedia, Cheapflights, and Momondo can help you find cheap flights from London to New York.

What are the main airports in New York for flights from London?

For flights from London to New York, John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and La Guardia Airport (LGA) are the main airports.

What are some top-rated airlines for the London-New York route?

Popular airlines for the London-New York route include SWISS, Delta, and KLM, all of which have excellent ratings.

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