Traveling between Toronto and New York is a popular route for both business and leisure travelers. Whether you’re planning a quick trip for a meeting or a weekend getaway, knowing the Toronto to New York flying time is essential for planning your journey.
In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know, including flight duration, factors affecting flying time, best airlines for this route, and travel tips to make your trip smoother.
How Long is the Flight from Toronto to New York?
Direct Flight Duration
A direct flight from Toronto (YYZ) to New York (JFK, LGA, or EWR) typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, the total travel time depends on various factors, such as weather conditions, air traffic, and the type of aircraft.
Here is a general breakdown of flying time:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to LaGuardia Airport (LGA): ~1 hour 25 minutes
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): ~1 hour 35 minutes
Flight Time with Layovers
If you’re taking a connecting flight, your total travel time will be longer. Some flights may have layovers in cities like Montreal, Boston, or Chicago, increasing the duration to 3 to 5 hours or more depending on the stopover.
Factors That Can Affect Toronto to New York Flying Time
Even though the average flight time is 1.5 hours, several factors can impact your travel duration.
- Weather Conditions
Bad weather, such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, or snowstorms, can delay flights. Since both Toronto and New York experience harsh winters, flights during this season might face delays.
- Air Traffic & Flight Congestion
New York City is one of the busiest air travel hubs in the world. Air traffic congestion at JFK, LGA, or EWR can sometimes extend flight times or cause delays in landing.
- Type of Aircraft
Smaller regional jets may take slightly longer than larger commercial planes because of speed differences.
- Wind Speed & Direction
Flights going against strong headwinds may take longer, while those benefiting from tailwinds might arrive earlier than expected.
Best Airlines Flying from Toronto to New York
Several airlines operate non-stop flights between Toronto and New York. Some of the most popular options include:
- Air Canada
- Canada’s national airline
- Multiple daily flights between Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and JFK/LGA/EWR
- Offers economy and business class options
- WestJet
- Affordable fares
- Direct flights to New York LaGuardia (LGA)
- Good for budget travelers
- American Airlines
- Operates direct flights from YYZ to JFK and LGA
- Good loyalty program for frequent flyers
- Delta Air Lines
- Flies from Toronto to New York (LGA and JFK)
- Comfortable seating and premium options available
- United Airlines
- Offers flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- Good for business travelers flying to New York
- If you prefer budget-friendly options, booking in advance or using airline rewards programs can help save money.
Toronto to New York Flight Cost & Best Time to Book
How Much Do Flights Cost?
The ticket price varies depending on the time of booking, airline, and demand. Here are the general fare ranges:
- Economy Class: $150 – $400 (round trip)
- Business Class: $500 – $1,200 (round trip)
Best Time to Book Cheap Flights
To get the best deal on your flight from Toronto to New York:
- Book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance – Last-minute tickets are usually expensive.
- Fly on weekdays – Tuesday and Wednesday flights are often cheaper.
- Use flight comparison websites – Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak help find the best fares.
- Consider alternate airports – Flying into Newark (EWR) instead of JFK or LGA may sometimes be cheaper.
Alternative Ways to Travel from Toronto to New York
If you’re looking for other options besides flying, here are some alternative ways to travel between Toronto and New York:
- Train Travel
- VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak operate trains between Toronto and New York City.
- The train ride takes about 12 hours and provides scenic views.
- One-way ticket prices start from $130 USD.
- Bus Travel
- Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus operate buses between Toronto and NYC.
- Travel time ranges from 10 to 12 hours.
- Ticket prices start from $50 USD, making it the cheapest option.
- Driving by Car
- The driving distance from Toronto to New York is about 800 km (500 miles).
- Travel time is approximately 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times.
- You will need a valid passport or visa to cross the U.S.-Canada border.
Toronto to New York Travel Tips
To make your trip smooth and stress-free, here are some useful travel tips:
- Arrive at the Airport Early
- For international flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
- Security checks and U.S. customs pre-clearance in Toronto can take time.
- Keep Your Travel Documents Ready
- Passport (Valid for U.S. entry)
- Visa or ESTA (If required)
- Boarding pass and travel insurance
- Choose the Right Airport in New York
- JFK: Best for international flights and connections.
- LGA: Closest to Manhattan, good for domestic travelers.
- EWR: Located in New Jersey, good for those heading to downtown NYC.
- Check Weather Conditions
Winter weather can cause flight delays, so always check your flight status before heading to the airport.
Final Thoughts
The Toronto to New York flying time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient way to travel between these two major cities. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, choosing the right airline, booking in advance, and preparing for potential delays can ensure a smooth journey.
For those who prefer alternative travel options, buses, trains, and car trips offer budget-friendly ways to make the trip. No matter how you choose to travel, planning ahead will help you enjoy a hassle-free experience from Toronto to New York.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out more travel tips and airline information on Get Airline!
John Edward is an avid airline enthusiast and passionate blogger dedicated to sharing his love for aviation with others. With extensive airline industry knowledge, John’s insightful blog posts cover various topics, from airline reviews and travel tips to industry news and updates. His engaging writing style and deep understanding of aviation make his blog a go-to resource for travelers and enthusiasts.
