New York → The Hamptons

New York to the Hamptons is the shortest yet most socially significant private aviation route on the East Coast — an 80-nautical-mile sprint that transforms a grueling three-hour summer Friday drive on the Long Island Expressway into an effortless 20-minute flight. For Wall Street managing directors, media executives, and Manhattan socialites with homes in Southampton, East Hampton, or Montauk, this route is not about distance but about reclaiming the most precious commodity: time.

Airport & FBO Analysis

Teterboro (KTEB) is the standard departure point, though many Hamptons-bound travelers opt for helicopter services from Manhattan heliports instead. For fixed-wing private jet service, Teterboro's FBOs process departures rapidly, and the short flight means minimal pre-flight preparation. Westchester County Airport (KHPN) is an alternative for clients in Connecticut or Westchester.

Francis S. Gabreski Airport (KFOK) in Westhampton Beach is the Hamptons' primary private aviation facility. The airport offers a well-run FBO with seasonal staff increases during summer weekends to handle the surge in traffic. The 9,000-foot runway accommodates jets of all sizes, though the route's short distance makes anything larger than a light jet impractical. Parking and ramp space become premium commodities on holiday weekends — advance arrangements are essential. East Hampton Airport (KJPX) is the closer alternative for clients in the eastern Hamptons, though it has shorter runways and more restrictive noise regulations.

Aircraft Recommendations

At just 80 nautical miles and roughly 20 minutes of flight time, light jets and turboprops are the only sensible options. A Phenom 100 or Citation M2 at $3,500 to $6,000 handles this route perfectly — you are barely at cruise altitude before beginning descent. Helicopter services (Blade, HeliFlite) are the primary competitors on this route and often represent the most convenient option for solo travelers or couples, but a light jet offers more luggage capacity and privacy for families.

Seasonal Pricing Intelligence

This route is purely seasonal — demand exists almost exclusively from Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September), with the absolute peak on Fourth of July weekend, Labor Day weekend, and during the Hampton Classic Horse Show in late August. Friday afternoon departures command the highest premiums, while Sunday evening returns are similarly elevated. Outside summer season, this route sees minimal private jet traffic, and aircraft availability is limited as operators reposition fleets to more active corridors.

Ground Experience

In the Hamptons, the Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton, Gurney's Montauk Resort, and The Baker House in East Hampton are popular with the private jet set. Ground transport from KFOK is straightforward — most Hamptons destinations are within a 20 to 40 minute drive. Many clients maintain personal vehicles at the airport or arrange standing car service for the summer season.

Booking Tips

• For holiday weekends, book at least 10 to 14 days in advance — aircraft availability on peak Fridays is extremely limited.
• Consider Thursday evening departures to avoid the Friday crush; pricing can be 20 to 30 percent lower and aircraft selection is far better.
• Helicopter alternatives (Blade, HeliFlite) offer Manhattan heliport departures that eliminate the Teterboro ground transfer — compare total door-to-door time for your specific origin and destination.
• Ramp parking at KFOK during peak weekends requires advance reservation; confirm with the FBO to avoid having your aircraft repositioned off-airport.