If you’re located in the Hudson Valley or the wider New York and New Jersey area, you might be weighing up the benefits of flying from a larger, more bustling airport like Newark (EWR) or JFK in New York City, against the ease and convenience offered by regional airports. While Albany International Airport (ALB) provides its own perks, and Westchester County Airport (HPN) offers proximity for some, New York Stewart International Airport (SWF) in Newburgh, NY, is emerging as a compelling option, particularly for those seeking direct flights and a stress-free travel experience.
For many travelers, the thought of navigating the sprawling terminals and parking labyrinths of major city airports is enough to induce pre-trip anxiety. Stewart Airport presents a refreshing alternative: a smaller, more manageable airport that still provides a growing range of direct flight destinations, both domestic and international. Operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, SWF shares the same parent organization as the major NYC airports, ensuring high standards of operation and continuous development.
“For travelers seeking a smoother air travel journey, New York Stewart offers an almost seamless airport experience right on the doorstep of the Hudson Valley and beyond,” highlights Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “Expect minimal security lines, straightforward baggage claim, and efficient customs processes. Stewart’s portfolio of unique and affordable destinations is expanding, and we are dedicated to supporting the airport’s growth as a significant economic driver for the region.”
Airplane being loaded at Stewart Airport
Destinations served from Stewart Airport include international locations like Reykjavik, Iceland, and domestic cities such as Charleston, South Carolina, and various destinations throughout Florida.
Which Airlines Operate Flights from Stewart Airport?
Currently, four airlines offer scheduled passenger services from SWF, providing a mix of domestic and international routes:
- Breeze Airways: A low-cost US airline known for its point-to-point flights, focusing on underserved routes.
- Allegiant Air: Another ultra-low-cost carrier in the US, concentrating on leisure travelers and offering flights to popular vacation destinations.
- PLAY: An Icelandic low-cost airline providing transatlantic flights via Reykjavik, connecting North America with Europe.
- Atlantic Airways: The flag carrier airline of the Faroe Islands, offering unique seasonal service to this North Atlantic archipelago.
When planning your travel from Stewart Airport, it’s advisable to check directly with these airlines, as their routes and schedules may not always be comprehensively listed on third-party travel search engines like Kayak or Booking.com. Visiting the airline’s official website ensures you get the most up-to-date information and potentially the best fares.
Direct Flight Destinations from Stewart Airport (SWF)
Stewart Airport offers a variety of direct flights, catering to both leisure and international travel aspirations. Here’s a breakdown of destinations by airline:
Breeze Airways:
- Orlando, FL (MCO): Flights operate on Thursdays and Sundays, perfect for weekend getaways or longer vacations to the theme park capital of the world.
- Charleston, SC (CHS): Fly to this historic and charming Southern city on Fridays and Mondays, ideal for a long weekend of culture and cuisine.
Allegiant Air:
- Orlando-Sanford, FL (SFB): Service available on Mondays and Fridays, offering another gateway to the Orlando area, often serving as a convenient alternative airport.
- Punta Gorda, FL (PGD): Flights on Mondays and Fridays connect you to Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
- St. Pete-Clearwater, FL (PIE): Fly on Sundays and Thursdays to reach the Tampa Bay area, with stunning beaches and vibrant city life.
- Myrtle Beach, SC (MYR): Seasonal service to this popular East Coast beach destination.
PLAY:
- Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF): Daily nonstop service to Iceland’s capital, serving as a hub for connections to numerous cities across Europe. This route opens up a world of European travel possibilities from SWF.
Atlantic Airways:
- Vágar, Faroe Islands (FAE): Limited seasonal service on Wednesdays between September and October. This unique route is the only direct connection from the US to the Faroe Islands, offering an extraordinary travel experience to this remote and stunning archipelago.
Stewart Airport Public Transportation Area and Flight Destinations
Public transportation and flight destinations information at Stewart Airport in Newburgh.
Advantages of Choosing Stewart Airport
Beyond the growing list of destinations, Stewart Airport offers several compelling advantages for travelers:
- Convenience and Ease: SWF is designed for a smoother travel experience. Expect shorter security lines, quicker baggage claim, and a less overwhelming airport environment compared to major hubs.
- Streamlined Customs: Having invested in a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspection station, SWF ensures efficient processing for international arrivals, handling up to 400 passengers per hour.
- Affordable Parking: Long-term parking at Stewart is significantly more economical than at larger airports. After an initial $12 for the first 24 hours, subsequent days are only $6, making extended trips much more budget-friendly for drivers.
- Accessibility: Stewart Airport is becoming increasingly accessible, with an express bus service directly from midtown Manhattan and an affordable shuttle from the Beacon Metro North train station, linking it to the wider New York transportation network.
In conclusion, for those seeking direct flights to a variety of destinations, both domestic and international, and a more relaxed and cost-effective airport experience, New York Stewart International Airport is a strong contender. As SWF continues to expand its routes and services, it’s poised to become an even more attractive departure point for travelers in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
