Flying From Philadelphia (PHL) If You Live in New Jersey

For travelers in South Jersey — Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Haddonfield, Mount Laurel — and parts of Central Jersey, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is often closer than Newark. PHL is a major hub, especially for American Airlines, with extensive domestic and international flights. The drive crosses the Delaware River on one of several bridges, with tolls charged when entering Pennsylvania. From Princeton, Newark and Philadelphia are roughly comparable, so the best choice depends on your flight and the time of day.

Who should consider PHL

Getting there

Routes typically use the Walt Whitman, Ben Franklin or Commodore Barry bridge, or I-95 from the north. Bridge tolls are charged westbound into Pennsylvania. Read NYC and NJ tolls explained.

PHL strengths

• A major American Airlines hub with many nonstop flights.
• International routes to Europe and beyond.
• Often shorter drive times from South Jersey than Newark.

Considerations

Traffic on I-95 and the bridges can be heavy at rush hour. For long-distance trips from North Jersey or New York, Newark or JFK is usually better. Read Newark vs JFK vs LaGuardia from Central Jersey and the Shore.

Book a transfer

Our long-distance car service covers Philadelphia airport transfers from New Jersey and New York.

Timing your trip

PHL is a large airport with several terminals spread along a long roadway. Allow time to reach the right terminal and, at peak times, for longer security lines. For international flights, aim to arrive about three hours before departure. From South Jersey, midday and evening drives are usually easier than morning and afternoon rush hours on the bridges.

Rail options

SEPTA’s Airport Line connects PHL with Center City Philadelphia, and PATCO trains link South Jersey with Center City, but combining them with luggage takes time. For families and groups with bags, a door-to-door car is usually simpler.