JFK to Manhattan: Train, car, and helicopter put to the test
TPG staffers compared three ways to travel from JFK to Manhattan: train, ride-hailing, and helicopter. The helicopter was fastest but expensive, while the train offered a surprisingly competitive time at the lowest cost. The article also notes credit card perks that can offset transit expenses.
The TPG race tested three JFK-to-Manhattan routes, with the train combining AirTrain and Long Island Rail Road service to Penn Station. While the helicopter arrived fastest, its cost was elevated by the required car transfer from the 30th Street helipad. Notably, the train delivered a competitive finish time at the lowest price, while ride-hailing finished last due to traffic congestion.
Several credit card programs can offset these travel expenses. Chase Sapphire Reserve cards offer a $300 annual travel credit that transit purchases typically trigger. Amex Platinum and Gold cardholders can receive monthly Uber Cash credits, while Bilt members can redeem Bilt Cash for up to two Blade flights annually, with Platinum members earning one free helicopter flight per year.
This comparison could help travelers make more informed, cost-conscious decisions when navigating major airport transfers. As urban congestion worsens and air travel demand grows, understanding the trade-offs between speed, cost, and convenience may influence how both leisure and business travelers budget their trips. The highlighted credit card perks could also shape consumer choices in card selection, potentially steering more travelers toward premium cards that bundle transit benefits.