โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
New York Stewart International Airport (SWF/KSWF) operates as the budget-friendly alternative to NYC's congested major airports, located 60 miles north of Manhattan in the scenic Hudson Valley with inexpensive parking ($6/hour), minimal security lines, and streamlined passenger processing that provides a nearly frictionless travel experience compared to JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. The facility serves budget carriers including Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, and evolving international services, with recent changes including Play Airlines' cessation in September 2025 following bankruptcy and Atlantic Airways ending Faroe Islands service, while Norse Atlantic Airways received approval for potential Norway routes. Originally built as a military installation and maintained as a dual-use civilian-military airport, Stewart offers corporate and private aviation alternatives for travelers seeking to avoid the crowds, delays, and complexity of traditional New York area airports while accessing similar destinations through low-cost carrier networks.
๐ Connection Tips
New York Stewart International Airport operates as the Hudson Valley's budget aviation gateway with Allegiant Air providing twice-weekly service to Fort Lauderdale, Myrtle Beach, Orlando/Sanford, Punta Gorda, and St. Petersburg/Clearwater, while Breeze Airways offers year-round Orlando service and seasonal Charleston connections, creating affordable alternatives to expensive NYC airport routes. The facility's location 60 miles north of Manhattan requires planning ground transportation via coach services, rental cars, or ride-sharing, though the $6/hour parking rates and minimal traffic congestion provide significant cost and time savings compared to accessing JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark airports. Recent airline changes include Play Airlines' September 2025 bankruptcy closure ending Iceland connections and Atlantic Airways discontinuing seasonal Faroe Islands service, while Norse Atlantic Airways received approval for potential Norway routes, reflecting the volatile nature of budget international service at secondary airports. Stewart's streamlined operations feature minimal security lines, simple baggage claim, and efficient customs processing for international flights, creating a nearly frictionless travel experience that appeals to cost-conscious travelers willing to drive additional distance for convenience and savings. The airport's dual civilian-military operations and corporate aviation facilities serve private and business travelers seeking alternatives to NYC airport congestion, while budget carriers focus on leisure destinations in Florida, South Carolina, and seasonal European markets. Seasonal service patterns require careful schedule verification, as low-cost carriers frequently adjust routes based on demand, with winter operations typically reduced compared to peak summer leisure travel periods when budget airlines maximize profitable vacation destinations. Ground transportation coordination becomes essential given the Hudson Valley location, with advance booking recommended for coach services to Manhattan or rental cars for exploring the scenic Hudson River region that attracts tourists to historic sites, wineries, and outdoor recreation throughout Orange County and surrounding areas.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, serves as a vital regional gateway to the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Pennsylvania. It offers a less congested and more convenient travel experience compared to larger metropolitan hubs. The airport features a single, modern terminal building spread across two levels, designed for efficient passenger processing and easy navigation. The lower level is dedicated to arrivals, housing baggage claim, car rental counters, and exits to ground transportation. The upper level manages departures, with ticket counters, airline check-in desks, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening checkpoint.
The airport continually invests in enhancing its passenger facilities. A recent TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project has significantly upgraded the security area, incorporating up to four screening lanes, modern escalators and elevators, and an enhanced air purification system. The terminal is structured with two main concourses: Concourse A on the ground level serves airlines like Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, while Concourse B on the upper level is utilized by United Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
Amenities at ABE are well-appointed for a regional facility, including several cafes and snack bars, shops for essentials and souvenirs, and free Wi-Fi throughout. ABE also offers family-friendly amenities such as a children's play area, a sensory room, and a therapy dog program, along with occasional live music performances, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
๐ Connection Tips
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is primarily a domestic airport, with most connections occurring within the United States. Its compact single-terminal design significantly simplifies the connection process, as there's no need for shuttle buses or trains between terminals, and walking times between gates are typically short. However, all connecting passengers, including those on domestic flights, must pass through a TSA security checkpoint. Travelers should be prepared to place all electronics and liquids (up to 2 liters) in separate trays for X-ray screening, as per TSA regulations.\n\nFor any onward domestic flights, it's recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours between flights, especially during peak travel times or early morning departures, to ensure ample time for security and gate transfers. While ABE does not handle international immigration or customs directly, passengers connecting from an international flight at a larger gateway (like Philadelphia or Newark) to ABE should account for the time required to clear those formalities at their initial point of entry into the U.S.\n\nABE offers convenient options for expedited security screening, including dedicated lanes for TSA PreCheck and the CLEAR program, which can significantly reduce wait times. Ground transportation to and from the airport is readily available, with taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rental companies all operating on-site. Local LANTA bus services also connect the airport to various points in the Lehigh Valley.
โ Back to New York Stewart International Airport