New York is one of the most popular transatlantic destinations from the UK, with dozens of daily flights from London and regional airports. Competition between airlines keeps prices competitive — here is how to find the best deals on UK to New York flights.
Best Airlines for UK to New York Flights
British Airways — Flies from London Heathrow to JFK and Newark. One of the most reliable transatlantic carriers with a strong frequent flyer programme. Return fares from £350–£700 in economy.
Virgin Atlantic — Flies from London Heathrow and Manchester to JFK. Excellent service and competitive pricing. Return fares from £350–£700 in economy.
Norwegian — Budget transatlantic carrier flying from London Gatwick to JFK and Newark. Cheapest fares but no frills — meals and luggage cost extra. Return fares from £250–£500.
United Airlines — Flies from London Heathrow to Newark (EWR). Good value and excellent connections within the US. Return fares from £350–£650.
American Airlines — Flies from London Heathrow to JFK. Good service and frequent flyer benefits. Return fares from £350–£700.
Delta — Flies from London Heathrow to JFK. Strong transatlantic service. Return fares from £350–£700.
Cheapest Months to Fly to New York
Cheapest months: January and February (excluding New Year). Return fares from £280–£450. The city is cold but quiet and affordable.
Good value months: March, April, and November. Return fares typically £320–£550.
Most expensive months: June, July, August, and December (especially Christmas/New Year). Return fares can reach £600–£1,200+.
Thanksgiving (late November) and Christmas/New Year are the most expensive periods — book 4–6 months ahead.
Tip: Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) is typically £50–£100 cheaper than weekend flights. Early morning and late evening departures are usually cheaper.
New York Airports: JFK, Newark & LaGuardia
JFK (John F. Kennedy International) — The main international airport, in Queens. Well connected to Manhattan by the AirTrain + subway (45–60 minutes, £8–£10) or taxi (£40–£60, 45–90 minutes depending on traffic).
Newark (EWR) — In New Jersey, slightly further from Manhattan but often cheaper. The AirTrain + NJ Transit train to Penn Station takes 30–45 minutes (£12–£15). Taxi to Midtown: £50–£80.
LaGuardia (LGA) — Primarily domestic flights, though some international routes. Closest to Midtown Manhattan (20–40 minutes by taxi, £25–£45) but no direct rail link.
Which airport to choose: JFK and Newark are both good options. JFK has better public transport links; Newark is often cheaper and has a faster train connection to Midtown.
Flight Booking Tips for New York
Book 8–12 weeks ahead for the best balance of price and availability on most transatlantic routes. For Christmas, New Year, and Thanksgiving, book 4–6 months ahead.
Use price comparison tools — Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak all show price calendars that make it easy to find the cheapest dates. The Google Flights price calendar is particularly useful for transatlantic routes.
Consider flying into Newark — Newark flights are often £50–£100 cheaper than JFK, and the AirTrain + NJ Transit connection to Penn Station is fast and reliable.
Premium economy — On a 7–8 hour transatlantic flight, premium economy (available on British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and others) is worth considering for the extra comfort. Prices are typically £500–£900 return — significantly cheaper than business class.
