LIRR offers discount package for MacArthur fliers

BY JENNIFER MALONEY

December 12, 2008

Getting to the airport on Long Island is going to get a little bit cheaper: The Long Island Rail Road is launching a discount package next week that will give travelers a break if they catch a train to Ronkonkoma, then board a shuttle for the 1 1/2-mile ride to the Long Island MacArthur Airport terminal.

The LIRR promotion could help attract more fliers to MacArthur, particularly residents of Nassau or New York City who might otherwise fly out of LaGuardia or Kennedy airports, said Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan.

Islip officials, who manage MacArthur, have been trying to attract more airlines and passengers to what they call the “no-hassle” airport. “I’m really excited about this,” Nolan said. “You jump on the train in Mineola, 35 minutes later you’re at Ronkonkoma, three minutes later you’re at the airport.”

From Penn Station, the discounted one-way fare will be $14 – a $4.50 savings over the price of a $13.50 rush-hour ticket and a $5 shuttle ride.

Yesterday, LIRR president Helena Williams said in a statement, “The railroad is pleased to offer this discount package and perhaps introduce New Yorkers to the advantages of Long Island MacArthur Airport.” LIRR is expected to make a formal announcement next week.

The railroad said it has contracted with Colonial Transportation, the Sayville company that operates a shuttle between the Ronkonkoma station and the airport, to honor the special tickets.

Riders can purchase the tickets at LIRR ticket offices or self-serve ticket machines, under the “Getaways & Packages” heading. Travelers will need to buy two one-way tickets in advance, officials said, because tickets won’t be available at MacArthur.

A cheaper train to the plane

A new LIRR discount package starting next week will offer travelers a cheaper way to fly from Long Island. The special ticket covers a one-way train trip to Ronkonkoma and a 1 1/2-mile shuttle ride to the Long Island MacArthur Airport. The fare is valid on both peak and nonpeak trains, and represents a savings of up to $4.50 each way.

From Penn Station, Flatbush Avenue, Woodside, Kew Gardens, Forest Hills, East New York and Nostrand Avenue: $14, or $11 for seniors.

From Jamaica: $12, or $10 for seniors.

From Mineola: $10, or $7 for seniors.

From Hicksville, Bethpage and Farmingdale: $8, or $6 for seniors.

From Wyandanch, Deer Park, Brentwood and Central Islip: $7, or $6 for seniors.

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