Everyone knows that the stress of catching a flight begins before even arriving at the airport–getting there is a feat in and of itself, and it’s not always an easy task. Driving there yourself? No one has the time or money (or even the car) for that. Scheduling a ride can put a pretty sizable dent in your wallet, and while hopping on the subway may seem like your best option lugging around your bags can be a true pain.
So when Uber first launched its airport shuttle service back in October 2024, giving New Yorkers an easy way to travel from Manhattan to LGA, we were understandably excited–especially since rides only cost $18! And lucky for us, this service is now being expanded.
Here’s what you need to know:
How does Uber shuttle work?
When Uber first launched its shuttle service, it gave New Yorkers the ability to book a seat on Uber Shuttle and travel between various transportation hubs to LaGuardia airport. Manhattan pick-up and drop-off checkpoints include Penn Station, Port Authority, and Grand Central Terminal.
Now, Uber is expanding its airport shuttle service to include one of the busiest hubs in the world: JFK. Travelers can choose one of four routes to JFK, with pickup locations at the following locations:
- Port Authority
- Grand Central Terminal
- Chinatown
- Atlantic Center in Brooklyn
Keep in mind you’ll first need to arrive at the participating transit hubs to board the shuttle, as Uber Shuttle does not do custom drop-off or pick-up points.
How much is Uber shuttle?
For a limited time, customers can grab a ride from specific stops in Manhattan or Brooklyn to JFK for just $10–that’s less than a subway ride ($2.90) + AirTrain ($8.25) fee for getting to JFK!
After April 30th, the fare increases to $25, including taxes, which is still a steal as typical Uber and Lyft trips to JFK–one of the most expensive airports for travelers–can cost upwards of $80, depending on the pickup location. To compare, Uber’s shuttle service to LGA costs a flat rate price of $20 (though they started out at $20).
How do I book an Uber shuttle?
Travelers can book up to four seats on Uber shuttle up to seven days ahead of their departure date right on the Uber app (or right on the day of your departure). Upon entering the shuttle, passengers will need to validate their reservation with the driver via a QR code and unique PIN.
Riders will get their pricing upfront before booking and won’t be subject to surge pricing. The shuttle operates daily rides every half hour between 5 am and 10:45 pm.
How many riders fit in an Uber shuttle?
At launch, Uber shuttle will be limited to up to 14 riders.
What are the routes for Uber shuttle to JFK Airport?
Route #1: Midtown Manhattan to/from JFK Airport – T5, with stops at the following:
- Port Authority Terminal (42nd St & 8th Ave)
- Grand Central Terminal (Park Ave & 42nd St)
- JFK Airport Terminal 5 Arrivals
Route #2: Midtown Manhattan to/from JFK Airport – T4, with stops at the following:
- Port Authority Terminal (42nd St & 8th Ave)
- Grand Central Terminal (Park Ave & 42nd St)
- JFK Airport Terminal 4 Arrivals
Route #3: Downtown Manhattan / Brooklyn to/from JFK Airport – T5, with stops at the following:
- Chinatown (Corner of Canal St & Lafayette St)
- Atlantic Terminal (Hanson Pl & Ashland Pl)
- JFK Airport Terminal 5 Arrivals
Route #4: Downtown Manhattan / Brooklyn to/from JFK Airport – T4, with stops at the following:
- Chinatown (Corner of Canal St & Lafayette St)
- Atlantic Terminal (Hanson Pl & Ashland Pl)
- JFK Airport Terminal 4 Arrivals
What luggage is allowed on Uber Shuttle?
Each passenger is allowed to bring one personal item, such as a purse or backpack that fits on their lap or under their seat, and one piece of luggage weighing up to 50 pounds.
Do Uber shuttles operate elsewhere?
The concept of Uber shuttles has been around since 2019. Beyond shuttling travelers to airports, Uber has also been experimenting with shuttle service for various concert and sports venues, such as offering $15 rides to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Miami last year. The service may soon also be coming to Boston’s Logan International Airport, making it easier for our friends over in Boston to travel to the airport as well.
Learn more and browse routes and schedules on Uber’s website.