While most New Yorkers brace themselves for traffic jams and long TSA lines at JFK or LaGuardia, savvy travelers have a better option — just in time for the busy holiday travel season.
USA Today readers officially named Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) in Ronkonkoma, NY, the second best small airport in the U.S., proving this “secret” South Shore airport is the perfect stress-free alternative for Thanksgiving, holiday flights, and weekend getaways.
Just 50 miles from midtown Manhattan, ISP offers a peaceful, efficient alternative to the crowded city airports.
Its proximity to Long Island attractions — from the Hamptons and Fire Island to wineries, Gold Coast mansions, and charming local towns — makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
With Avelo Airlines and Cape Air joining Breeze, Frontier, JetBlue, and Southwest in 2025, flying from ISP is easier than ever, whether you’re heading south for sun, hopping the East Coast, or planning a quick Long Island getaway.
What makes Long Island MacArthur Airport stand out?
- Stress-free travel: Short security lines, quick curb-to-gate access, minimal walking distances, and light crowds make ISP the ultimate anti-JFK/LGA experience. Passengers often get from car to gate in 15–20 minutes — a rarity in the New York airport world.
- Recent upgrades: The airport has modernized its terminal, added a Ground Transportation Center, enhanced baggage claim areas, deployed trained K9 units, and incorporated mobile-friendly tech updates for a smoother travel experience.
- Clean, comfortable terminals: Ample seating, filtered water stations, and clear signage make navigating the airport a breeze.
Where you can fly nonstop from ISP
ISP offers nonstop service to at least 10 major destinations, making it a gateway for business and leisure travelers:
- Florida: Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Fort Myers, Palm Beach, Lakeland
- East Coast Cities: Baltimore/Washington, Boston, Charleston (SC), Charlotte/Concord, Myrtle Beach
Airlines include Southwest, Frontier, JetBlue, Avelo, Breeze, and Cape Air, with easy connections across the U.S.
In-airport features & amenities
- Dining & shopping: Grab snacks, coffee, or travel essentials at Dunkin’ Donuts and Paradies Gift Shops.
- Free wi-fi & lounges: Complimentary internet, family-friendly seating, and filtered water throughout the terminal.
- Ground Transportation Center: Rental cars, taxis, buses, shuttles, and rideshares all in one convenient location.
- Parking: Affordable lots close to the terminal, plus a cell phone waiting area for quick pick-ups.
- Accessibility & security: ADA-compliant facilities and enhanced safety protocols, including K9 patrols.
The airport’s history & character
Originally built in 1942 as “Islip Airport” for military purposes just months after Pearl Harbor, it was later renamed MacArthur Airport after General Douglas MacArthur.
Its commercial passenger flights began in 1960 with Allegheny Airlines.
Today, ISP has maintained its military ties, hosting an Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility while transforming into a modern, small-but-mighty regional airport.
Unlike generic terminals, ISP carries a distinct Long Island vibe, from its East End-themed gift shop to welcoming staff who make the airport feel like a local hub rather than a bustling concrete maze.
Thanks to a $150 million grant from New York State, 2025 has seen major upgrades to terminals and amenities, further solidifying its place as one of the country’s best small airports.
The 10 best small airports in the U.S., according to USA Today
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport — Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Long Island MacArthur Airport — Ronkonkoma, New York
- Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport — Warwick, Rhode Island
- Myrtle Beach International Airport — Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Piedmont Triad International Airport — Greensboro, North Carolina
- Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport — Rochester, New York
- Huntsville International Airport — Huntsville, Alabama
- Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport — Wichita, Kansas
- Pensacola International Airport — Pensacola, Florida
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport — Fresno, California