Cheap flights to New York from across Australia

Flights to New York: How to fly into JFK hassle-free

New York brings the energy, the icons, and the late-night eats. You’ve seen it on screen…now it’s time to walk it for real. From Broadway shows to bagels in Brooklyn, rooftop views to subway rides, it’s a city that lives large. Whether you’re here to tick off the big sights or just soak it all in, flying into JFK puts you close to the action, with plenty of one-stop flights to New York from Australia. Now’s a good time to lock in your trip and start planning the big city adventure.

How long is the flight to New York

• Hobart to New York: From 20 hours 40 minutes (with 1 stop)
• Sydney to New York: From 20 hours 50 minutes (with 1 stop)
• Brisbane to New York: From 21 hours (with 1 stop)
• Melbourne to New York: From 21 hours 5 minutes (with 1 stop)
• Adelaide to New York: From 21 hours 25 minutes (with 1 stop)
• Perth to New York: From 25 hours (with 1 stop)
• Cairns to New York: From 25 hours 55 minutes (with 1 stop)
• Darwin to New York: From 28 hours 15 minutes (with 1 stop)

Which airlines fly direct to New York

There are no direct flights from Australia just yet, but plenty of solid one-stop options:

• Qantas: Full-service, smooth connections via Auckland or Los Angeles.
• United Airlines: Competitive fares and good flight times.
• American Airlines: Big US network with easy stopovers.
• Air New Zealand: Great service via Auckland.
• Singapore Airlines: Premium all the way, with easy layovers in Singapore.
• Air Canada: One-stop via Vancouver, solid onboard service.
• Cathay Pacific: Reliable, with comfy long-haul options via Hong Kong.

Where you can fly direct to New York from

You can’t fly direct from Australia to New York just yet, but one-stop options make it easy to get there from any major Australian city. Common stopovers include LA, San Francisco, Dallas, Auckland, or Singapore—so you can stretch your legs (or fit in a cheeky layover).

Where is the airport in New York?

John F. Kennedy International Airport is in Queens, around 25 kms from Midtown Manhattan.  You’ve got a few ways to get there, depending on where you’re coming from:

• LIRR + AirTrain: From Manhattan or Brooklyn, take the Long Island Rail Road to Jamaica Station, then switch to the AirTrain.
• Subway + AirTrain: A cost-saving option if you’re outside central areas.
• Metro-North + LIRR + AirTrain: From northern suburbs, connect via Grand Central.
• Airport transfer: Great if you’ve got bags or want a stress-free ride.

When is the cheapest time to fly to New York

January to early March is your best bet for low fares. It’s winter, but the city’s still buzzing and crowds are way down. Prices peak during summer (June–August), late December, and over Thanksgiving week. Book outside those windows to save.

Visa/Passport requirements when flying to New York

Aussies heading to the US for less than 90 days can apply for an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. It’s valid for two years and covers multiple trips. Apply online, allow at least 72 hours, and triple-check that your passport and booking details match.

How early to arrive at the airport

Give yourself three hours at your home airport before flying to New York.

Heading to the Big Apple? Book your New York hotel, activity or hire car with Traveloka.