Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP), in Ronkonkoma, is owned and operated by the Town of Islip. It’s a much smaller airport than JFK or LaGuardia, served by a handful of airlines — Southwest has long been its main carrier — with routes mainly to Florida and other domestic destinations. For residents of central and eastern Long Island and visitors to the Hamptons and North Fork, MacArthur can save an hour or more of driving and offers short lines and easy pickups.

At a glance
Location Ronkonkoma, Suffolk County, NY
Owner Town of Islip
Airlines A small number, mainly domestic (check current service)
Nearby rail Long Island Rail Road Ronkonkoma station
Best for Suffolk County, Hamptons and North Fork travelers

Why use MacArthur

  • Location: far closer than JFK for much of Suffolk County.
  • Simplicity: a small terminal with shorter lines.
  • Easy pickups: less congestion at the curb.

Limitations

Flight choice is limited, and schedules can change seasonally. For international flights or wider options, JFK remains necessary.

Getting there

From Manhattan, the drive via the Long Island Expressway can take well over an hour, depending heavily on traffic — MacArthur makes the most sense if you’re already on Long Island. Read the Long Island Expressway history.

Hamptons connection

Summer visitors to the Hamptons sometimes fly into MacArthur and take a car the rest of the way. Read the Hamptons car service guide and Montauk day trip.

Tips for flying from ISP

  • Check seasonal schedules, which expand in winter for Florida routes.
  • Use the LIRR connection if traveling light: Ronkonkoma station is nearby, with a short shuttle or taxi ride to the terminal.
  • Book your ride in advance for early departures or late arrivals, when local taxis may be scarce.
  • Compare total door-to-door time with JFK and LaGuardia, not just flight prices.