There are 103 flights a week from JFK to LAX, with departures available from 05:30 – 22:29. Check out the full flight schedule below to find nonstop options for your dates of travel.
Note that flight durations reflect the time spent in-flight, not boarding or landing. These data points are provided by FlightAware, a flight-tracking service.
Getting to the airport
JFK and LAX are connected by many ground transportation options, including airport shuttles, local buses, light rail, taxicabs, ride-share services, and rental cars. Depending on your budget, you can choose the most convenient option to get to the airport. Make sure to allow extra time for traffic, security checks, and equipment or weather delays.
The best way to get to the airport is by train. You can take the E, J, or Z subway line to Jamaica Station and then board the AirTrain to the airport. If you are traveling with a large group of people, you may want to consider the express bus, which is operated by the NYC Department of Transportation.
A free shuttle bus connects the airport with the Metro Green Line, and another shuttle bus transports passengers between airline terminals. There are also several bus lines that stop at the airport, including LA Metro, Culver City Bus, Torrance Transit, Beach Cities Transit, and Santa Monica Big Blue Bus.
Getting around the airport
A taxi ride from JFK to Manhattan or anywhere else in NYC will cost you about $70 (plus tip and tunnel tolls). You can also take a shared airport shuttle, which is less expensive but less convenient.
The best way to get to LGA from the city is to use public transit. The subway stops about a mile from the airport, and buses are slow. Moreover, the terminals are spread out, so you will have to transfer a few times before you reach your destination.
The cheapest option is to take the AirTrain, which is a free service, except when you start or end at Jamaica Station or Howard Station. You can also take the LIRR to Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn or Penn Station in Manhattan. Alternatively, you can book a private airport shuttle. These services typically start at $40, but they are more convenient than taking the subway with luggage. Check for online specials to make them even more affordable.
Getting to your flight
If you’re flying from JFK to LAX, be sure to arrive at the gate 15 min before departure. This will allow you to get through security and board the plane. The boarding time is indicated on your ticket, but you should also factor in airport wait times and possible equipment or weather delays.
JFK is the largest and busiest airport in New York City, so it can take a long time to navigate its 8 massive terminals. The best way to save money is to book a flight during the week. Flights are in less demand during the workweek, so you can find some great deals!
To save even more, consider booking a shared shuttle or using rideshare services like Lyft or Uber. By comparing prices and departure times, you can find the cheapest options. You can also save your search and create a price alert to receive email or push notifications when the price changes.
Getting to your hotel
If you’re staying in Manhattan or another NYC borough, the easiest way to get there is by subway. It’s cheap and easy to use – just make sure you get on the right train for your destination.
JFK’s AirTrain is an internal train service that connects the airport to Jamaica Station and Howard Beach. You can catch it from any terminal, but be aware that the train only runs every 3-5 or 6-8 minutes during peak hours.
Taxis and private shuttles are also available from the airport. Official taxi ranks are located outside every terminal, and you can book a comfortable private shuttle in advance. Your driver will send you a meeting point before your arrival.
LaGuardia Airport is based in Queens and is much closer to Manhattan than JFK. However, traffic can be heavy at certain times of day, so a shuttle is a great option if you want to avoid the crowds. The FlyAway shuttle is the cheapest and most convenient option, but it does have luggage restrictions.