I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to score the best flights to this iconic New England city. From my personal flight experience from New York to Boston, to tips on booking your flight and how to choose the best deals, this article will give you all the insights you need to make your journey as smooth and affordable as possible.
My Flight Experience: New York to Boston
I recently took a flight from New York City to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), and I must say, it was a relatively short yet eventful trip. The flight was with JetBlue Airways, a carrier that I often choose for domestic flights due to their good reputation for service, affordable pricing, and comfort. It was a one-way ticket that I booked last minute, so I was curious to see what I would get for my money.
Flight Details
- Airline: JetBlue Airways
- Flight Number: B6 1031
- Departure Airport: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
- Arrival Airport: Logan International Airport (BOS), Boston
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Cabin Class: Economy Class
- Ticket Price: $150 (one-way)
Booking Process and Price
I booked my ticket through JetBlue’s official website, and I opted for their Blue Basic fare, which is a budget option. Booking directly through the airline’s website often offers more flexibility and no hidden fees, which is why I prefer this route. I found the pricing quite reasonable, especially considering that the flight duration is just under 90 minutes, making it one of the most affordable and quickest ways to travel between two iconic cities in the U.S.
Interestingly, I also checked for round-trip tickets, which were priced at about $300 for the same route, with options for slightly cheaper tickets if I were to travel on weekdays rather than weekends. I also kept an eye out for any special promotions or seasonal discounts, as airlines frequently offer deals around major holidays or during sales events.
Cabin Comfort and Experience
In the Economy Class, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort provided, given that it was a short-haul flight. Here’s a breakdown of my experience:
- Seat Comfort: The legroom was decent for such a short flight, and the seats were equipped with adjustable headrests, which made it easier to settle in and relax. The tray tables were a little small, but I didn’t need much space for a brief flight.
- Entertainment Options: Each seat had a personal screen, and JetBlue offers free access to a variety of in-flight entertainment, including movies, TV shows, and even live TV channels, which is a nice touch for a domestic flight. They also provided free Wi-Fi, which is a lifesaver for any traveler looking to catch up on work or browse the web.
- Service: The flight attendants were very friendly, and I was impressed by their professionalism. They offered light snacks, including chips, cookies, and a refreshing drink of choice, which was a nice touch considering the short flight. I opted for a soda and some pretzels, but if you’re looking for something more substantial, JetBlue also offers premium snack options for purchase.
- Overall Experience: I’d rate the overall experience as solid and reliable, with JetBlue proving once again that it’s a good choice for short-haul flights in the U.S. The service was punctual, and the flight was smooth, which is all you need for a short trip like New York to Boston.
Tips for Booking Your Flight to Boston
When booking a flight to Boston, there are a few strategies you can use to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. Here are some tips I swear by:
- Book Early (But Not Too Early): The best time to book a flight to Boston is typically two to three months in advance. Booking too early (6+ months out) might not yield the best prices, and booking last minute can cost you dearly. Try to time your purchase for a sweet spot where fares are still affordable.
- Use Fare Comparison Tools: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak help compare the fares of various airlines, including hidden options like budget carriers and deals from secondary airports. I find this essential when trying to find the lowest fare for any route.
- Consider Flexible Dates: If you’re not tied to specific dates, use fare comparison tools that allow you to compare fares for different dates. Sometimes flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday can save you a lot of money compared to weekend flights.
- Sign Up for Fare Alerts: Many websites, including Airfarewatchdog and Hopper, allow you to set fare alerts. You’ll receive notifications when prices drop or when it’s the best time to book based on predicted trends.
- Check Alternate Airports: Boston Logan International (BOS) is the main airport, but it’s worth checking fares to Providence (PVD) or Manchester (MHT) if you’re willing to take a longer drive or bus ride into Boston.
Recommended Flights to Boston
If you’re planning to visit Boston, here are four other great flight options that I would recommend, based on my own experiences and the experience of fellow travelers:
1. American Airlines – JFK to BOS
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Cabin Class: Economy and Business Class available
- Price Range: $160 – $300
- Why I Recommend It: American Airlines offers a smooth flight with ample legroom and the option for Wi-Fi. Their frequent flyer program is excellent for those who travel often.
2. Delta Airlines – LaGuardia (LGA) to BOS
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cabin Class: Economy and First Class available
- Price Range: $150 – $280
- Why I Recommend It: Delta’s customer service is stellar, and their in-flight entertainment is top-notch. They also provide snacks and beverages on every flight, no matter the duration.
3. Southwest Airlines – Newark (EWR) to BOS
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cabin Class: Only Economy, but spacious seats
- Price Range: $130 – $220
- Why I Recommend It: Known for its great customer service and no change fee policy, Southwest is a fantastic option for travelers who value flexibility. You also get two free checked bags, which is a huge bonus.
4. JetBlue Airways – LGA to BOS
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cabin Class: Economy (and Mint for Business Class)
- Price Range: $130 – $220
- Why I Recommend It: I love JetBlue for its free Wi-Fi and free snacks. The in-flight entertainment is also a great bonus. This is a solid option if you’re looking for a reliable, affordable flight.
Nearby Airports and Transportation to Boston
While Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is the main and most convenient airport for flying into Boston, there are a few other nearby airports that travelers may want to consider, depending on their preferences and budget. Below is a more detailed breakdown of these airports, along with transportation options and services available to passengers.
1. Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Location: Only 3 miles from downtown Boston, Logan International is by far the closest airport to the city center, making it the most convenient for travelers.
- Transportation:
- MBTA Subway (Blue Line): The Blue Line of the Boston Subway (MBTA) system offers a direct connection between Logan and downtown Boston. The subway ride takes around 10–15 minutes to reach the downtown area, with stops at Airport Station and major points like State Street and Government Center.
- Silver Line Bus: The Silver Line (SL1) bus service connects Logan Airport directly to South Station, a major transportation hub for Amtrak and commuter rail services. The ride is approximately 20 minutes. The Silver Line also provides connections to other parts of the city, including Seaport District and Financial District.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are easily available at the airport’s designated ride-sharing areas. A taxi ride to downtown Boston typically costs between $25–$35, depending on traffic and the exact location. The trip usually takes around 20 minutes in normal traffic.
- Airport Shuttles: Several hotel shuttle services are available at Logan for passengers who have booked accommodations in specific hotels. Many larger hotels near downtown offer free or low-cost shuttle services for their guests.
- Service:
- Dining and Shopping: Logan has a wide range of dining options, including sit-down restaurants and grab-and-go eateries. Some popular options include Legal Sea Foods (for a taste of local seafood), Dunkin’ Donuts, and various cafes offering coffee and snacks. There are also duty-free shops, local stores, and boutiques selling souvenirs, books, and travel accessories.
- Lounges: Logan offers several airport lounges for frequent flyers and travelers looking for a more comfortable waiting experience. The American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, and United Club are some of the most common options. Access to these lounges often requires a membership or lounge day pass, but they provide comfortable seating, free snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
- Rental Cars: Logan has several rental car agencies, including Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Rental car services are available at the airport’s Car Rental Center, which can be reached by a free shuttle from all terminals. If you’re planning to explore the greater Boston area or the nearby New England region, renting a car is a convenient option.
- Other Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, along with other services such as ATMs, charging stations, and pet relief areas for travelers with animals.
2. Providence T.F. Green Airport (PVD)
- Location: Located about 50 miles south of Boston in Warwick, Rhode Island, Providence T.F. Green is a smaller airport compared to Logan but still a popular choice for travelers. Although it’s further from the city, it’s often more affordable and less crowded, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
- Transportation:
- Peter Pan Bus: One of the most popular and affordable ways to get from PVD to Boston is via the Peter Pan Bus service. The bus ride typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach downtown Boston, with buses leaving regularly throughout the day. The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from $12–$25, depending on when you book.
- Amtrak: Amtrak operates Northeast Regional trains from Providence Station to Boston’s South Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and tickets typically cost between $15–$30, depending on the time of day and how far in advance you book.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available from the airport, but they can be more expensive for the 50-mile ride to Boston. The fare generally ranges from $100–$150, depending on traffic.
- Rental Cars: Providence Airport has a Rental Car Center, where you can find major agencies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Renting a car might be a good option if you want the flexibility to explore not just Boston, but also Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts.
- Service:
- Dining and Shopping: T.F. Green Airport offers a limited selection of dining options, including a few fast food outlets and coffee stands. While not as extensive as Logan, there are places to grab a quick bite or drink before your flight.
- Other Amenities: Providence offers free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and a few charging stations. However, the services at T.F. Green are not as extensive as those at Logan, so if you’re expecting a wide range of shops and lounges, Logan might be a better choice.
3. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
- Location: Situated about 53 miles north of Boston, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is another regional airport serving New England. Like Providence, Manchester offers lower-cost flights, often from Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines.
- Transportation:
- Concord Coach Lines: One of the best ways to get from MHT to Boston is via Concord Coach Lines, which offers direct bus service between Manchester and Boston. The bus ride takes about 1 hour, and tickets are usually around $20–$25 one-way.
- Amtrak: You can also take an Amtrak train from Manchester’s Amtrak station to Boston’s North Station, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour. Tickets typically cost $15–$25, making this a convenient option if you’re looking for a quicker alternative to the bus.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available, though the cost can vary. Expect to pay around $100–$120 for a ride from MHT to downtown Boston, depending on traffic.
- Rental Cars: MHT has a Rental Car Center with services from companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. This is a good option for those who plan to drive in and around the New England region.
- Service:
- Dining and Shopping: The food options at MHT are more limited than those at Logan or T.F. Green. The airport has a few small cafes and snack shops where you can grab a quick bite, but not much in terms of sit-down restaurants.
- Other Amenities: While MHT offers free Wi-Fi and ATMs, it’s a much smaller and quieter airport compared to Logan. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a simpler, less crowded experience, but be aware that it may not have all the amenities you might expect from a major airport.
Each airport has its advantages and trade-offs when it comes to convenience, pricing, and services. Logan International is the most convenient for Boston, but if you’re looking to save money or avoid the crowds, Providence T.F. Green and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport are both excellent alternatives. By carefully considering your budget and preferences, you can easily find the best airport and transportation options to make your trip to Boston seamless and stress-free.
Final Tips for Booking Your Flight to Boston
- Be Flexible with Dates: Always check alternative dates for the best pricing.
- Book Early: If you want to save, try to book at least 2 months in advance.
- Check Nearby Airports: Consider flying into nearby airports like Providence or Manchester if you’re looking for budget options.
Finding the best flights to Boston is easier than it seems with a little research and flexibility. By using the tips I’ve shared in this guide and considering the airlines and airports mentioned, you’ll be able to score a flight that suits your needs and budget. Happy travels!