Travelers arriving in or departing from the New York City area often face a choice between three major airports: Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport. Each airport serves millions of passengers every year and acts as a gateway for both domestic and international travelers. For immigrants, visitors, and residents alike, understanding the differences in ground transportation costs and policies at these airports can make a big difference in planning a smooth, affordable trip.
This comparison provides a detailed look at the drop-off and pick-up fees at Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport as of July 2025. It covers the current fee structures, recent policy changes, practical impacts for travelers and drivers, and recommendations for choosing the best airport based on your situation.
Overview of the Airports and Their Roles
Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport are the three main airports serving the New York City region. Each airport is managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and each has its own strengths, weaknesses, and unique policies. For many immigrants and international travelers, these airports are the first point of contact with the United States 🇺🇸.
- Newark Liberty International (EWR): Located in New Jersey, Newark Liberty International is a major hub for United Airlines and serves both domestic and international flights. It is often chosen by travelers heading to or from New Jersey, Manhattan’s west side, or points south.
- John F. Kennedy International (JFK): JFK is the largest and busiest of the three, handling most of the region’s international flights. It is located in Queens and is a major entry point for immigrants and visitors from around the world.
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Also in Queens, LaGuardia mainly serves domestic flights and is popular for short-haul trips, especially to and from other U.S. cities.
While each airport has its own layout and transportation options, the Port Authority has standardized many of the ground transportation fees to address congestion and fund improvements.
Current Drop-Off and Pick-Up Fees (2025)
As of July 2025, Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport all have similar fee structures for taxis and for-hire vehicles (FHVs), such as Uber and Lyft. These fees are among the highest in the United States 🇺🇸, especially because they apply to both pick-ups and drop-offs for ride-hailing services.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the current fees:
| Feature | JFK | LGA | EWR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi Pick-Up Fee | $1.75 | $1.75 | $1.75 |
| FHV Pick-Up/Drop-Off Fee | $2.50 | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Pooled FHV Fee | $1.25 | $1.25 | $1.25 |
| Effective Date | April 5, 2023 | April 5, 2023 | April 5, 2023 |
| Airport | Taxi Pick-Up Fee | FHV Pick-Up/Drop-Off Fee | Pooled FHV Fee | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JFK | $1.75 (pick-up only) | $2.50 (pick-up & drop-off) | $1.25 (pooled, pick-up & drop-off) | April 5, 2023 |
| LGA | $1.75 (pick-up only) | $2.50 (pick-up & drop-off) | $1.25 (pooled, pick-up & drop-off) | April 5, 2023 |
| EWR | $1.75 (pick-up only) | $2.50 (pick-up & drop-off) | $1.25 (pooled, pick-up & drop-off) | April 5, 2023 |
Key details:
– Taxi fees only apply to pick-ups, not drop-offs.
– FHV fees (Uber, Lyft, etc.) apply to both pick-ups and drop-offs.
– Pooled FHV rides (shared rides) are charged at a lower rate.
– These fees are automatically added to your fare and are not paid separately.
For travelers using ride-hailing apps, this means that a round-trip to or from any of these airports will include an extra $5 in fees ($2.50 each way), or $2.50 if you use a pooled ride both ways.
Historical Context and Policy Changes
Before 2021, none of these airports charged access fees for drop-offs or pick-ups. The introduction of these fees between 2021 and 2023 marked a major shift in airport policy. The main reasons for these changes were:
- Curbside congestion: With the rise of ride-hailing services, airport curbs became crowded, causing traffic jams and delays.
- Funding needs: The Port Authority uses these fees to help pay for airport upgrades and maintenance.
Since April 2023, the current rates have remained in place. The Port Authority has not announced any new increases or changes to these fees as of July 2025. There are also no curbside access fees for private vehicles (such as friends or family dropping you off or picking you up), though there have been discussions about this in the past.
Practical Implications for Travelers
The drop-off and pick-up fees at Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport affect different groups in different ways. Here’s how the fees impact travelers, drivers, and families:
For travelers using Uber, Lyft, or similar services:
– You pay an extra $2.50 per trip for both pick-up and drop-off.
– If you use a pooled ride (shared with other passengers), the fee drops to $1.25 per trip.
– These fees are added to your total fare automatically.
For taxi passengers:
– You pay a $1.75 fee for pick-ups only.
– There is no fee for taxi drop-offs.
For private vehicles (friends or family):
– No curbside access fee is charged as of July 2025.
– You must still follow airport traffic rules and parking regulations.
For drivers (taxi and FHV):
– The fees are collected from passengers and passed on to the airport authority.
– Some drivers worry that higher fees may discourage people from using their services, especially for short trips.
For frequent travelers:
– If you use ride-hailing services for both arrival and departure, the fees can add up quickly.
– It’s important to include these costs when planning your travel budget.
Pros and Cons of Each Airport’s Fee Structure
While the fee structures at Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport are nearly identical, there are still some differences in how they affect travelers depending on their needs and circumstances.
Pros:
– Standardized fees: The same rates at all three airports make it easier to predict costs.
– Lower pooled ride fees: Shared rides offer a way to save money.
– No fee for private vehicles: Families and friends can still drop off or pick up passengers without extra charges.
Cons:
– High costs for ride-hailing users: The $2.50 fee each way is among the highest in the country.
– No fee difference for distance: Whether your ride is long or short, the fee is the same.
– No relief for frequent users: Regular travelers may feel the impact of these fees more than occasional visitors.
Comparison of Requirements, Timelines, and Costs
When comparing Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport, it’s helpful to look at the requirements, timelines, and costs for each type of ground transportation.
Requirements:
– Taxi and FHV drivers must be licensed and registered to operate at these airports.
– Passengers do not need to do anything special; the fees are handled automatically.
– Private vehicles must follow posted signs and traffic rules but do not pay access fees.
Timelines:
– The fees are charged at the time of pick-up or drop-off.
– There is no waiting period or application process for these fees.
Costs:
– Taxi pick-up: $1.75 (no fee for drop-off)
– FHV pick-up and drop-off: $2.50 each way
– Pooled FHV pick-up and drop-off: $1.25 each way
– Private vehicle: No fee
Recommendations for Different Situations
Choosing the best airport and transportation option depends on your specific needs. Here are some recommendations based on common scenarios:
If you are an immigrant or international traveler arriving for the first time:
– Consider which airport is closest to your destination. JFK is often the main entry point for international flights, but Newark Liberty International may be more convenient for those heading to New Jersey or Manhattan’s west side.
– If you have family or friends picking you up, you can avoid the access fees entirely.
If you are a frequent business traveler:
– Using pooled ride-hailing services can help reduce costs over time.
– If you travel often between the airports and the city, factor these fees into your expense reports.
If you are traveling with a large group or family:
– Private vehicles remain the most cost-effective option if someone can pick you up or drop you off.
– For groups using ride-hailing, splitting the fee among several people can make it more affordable.
If you are a student or on a tight budget:
– Look for pooled ride options or consider public transportation to avoid or reduce fees.
– Check if your school or organization offers shuttle services from the airport.
Decision-Making Framework
To help you decide which airport and transportation method is best for your situation, consider the following questions:
- Where is your final destination? Choose the airport closest to your destination to save time and money.
- How many people are traveling with you? Larger groups may benefit from private vehicles or pooled rides.
- Are you being picked up or dropped off by someone you know? If yes, you can avoid access fees.
- Are you using a taxi or ride-hailing service? Remember to factor in the extra fees for each trip.
- Is saving money your top priority? Use pooled rides or public transportation when possible.
Stakeholder Perspectives
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has stated that these fees are necessary to manage congestion and fund airport improvements. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these fees are now standard at major U.S. airports, though New York’s rates are among the highest, especially for ride-hailing services.
Taxi and ride-hailing drivers have mixed feelings. Some worry that higher fees may drive away customers, while others accept that these charges are now part of doing business at busy airports.
Passengers, especially those who travel often or rely on ride-hailing services, have expressed frustration about the rising costs. For immigrants and visitors who may not be familiar with local policies, these fees can come as an unwelcome surprise.
Future Outlook
As of July 2025, there are no announced plans to increase these fees or add new curbside charges for private vehicles at Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, or LaGuardia Airport. The Port Authority continues to monitor traffic and may adjust policies in the future if congestion worsens or if new funding is needed for airport projects.
Any proposed changes would be announced through official channels and would include a public comment period, giving travelers and drivers a chance to share their opinions.
Official Resources and Where to Get Help
For the most up-to-date information on airport fees, policies, and transportation options, visit the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s official website. Each airport also has its own website with details on ground transportation, parking, and contact information:
- JFK: jfkairport.com
- LGA: laguardiaairport.com
- EWR: newarkairport.com
Customer service numbers are available for each airport if you need help or have questions about your trip.
- JFK: (718) 244-4444
- LGA: (718) 533-3400
- EWR: (973) 961-6000
Actionable Takeaways
- Plan ahead: Know the fees for your chosen airport and transportation method before you travel.
- Consider alternatives: If possible, use pooled rides, public transportation, or private vehicles to save money.
- Stay informed: Check official airport websites for the latest updates on fees and policies.
- Budget accordingly: Include these fees in your travel plans, especially if you use ride-hailing services for both arrival and departure.
In summary, Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia Airport all have similar, high ground transportation fees for taxis and ride-hailing services. These fees are designed to manage congestion and fund improvements, but they can add up quickly for frequent travelers. By understanding the current policies and considering your options, you can make the best choice for your travel needs and budget.
Learn Today
Newark Liberty International → Major New Jersey airport serving domestic and international flights, operated by Port Authority of NY and NJ.
Port Authority → Bi-state agency managing transportation infrastructure, including the three NYC area airports.
FHV (For-Hire Vehicle) → Vehicles like Uber and Lyft that carry passengers for a fee, regulated at airports.
Pooled Ride → Shared ride service where passengers split costs by traveling together in one vehicle.
Drop-Off Fee → Charge applied when vehicles unload passengers at airport curbs, often for ride-hailing services.
This Article in a Nutshell
New York’s main airports—Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia—implement high ride-hailing fees to ease congestion and fund upgrades. Travelers must budget for $2.50 fees each way, while private car drop-offs remain free. Understanding each airport’s fees can help immigrants and visitors plan affordable travel effectively.
— By VisaVerge.com
