Setting the course for a reimagined EWR

Building a world-class gateway for the New Jersey and New York region

The Port Authority has begun the transformation of the Newark Liberty International Airport into a modern hub that accommodates increasing passenger numbers while supporting the regional economy and the vibrant culture and diversity of its communities. 

 

The $2.7 billion cornerstone of the project, the brand new Terminal A, was completed in 2023 and received immediate accolades, including being named the best new terminal in the world. Terminal A offers a glimpse into the future of what travelers can expect and what Newark Airport will become when fully completed. The next chapter began in October 2025 with the groundbreaking of the new $3.5 billion AirTrain Newark, which will move passengers seamlessly between terminals and regional transit connections.

 

The phased development sets the course for a reimagined Newark Liberty that will accommodate more passengers and aircraft while reducing delays and congestion, delivering a world-class air travel experience from curb to gate.

49.1 Million

Passengers

A record-breaking 49 million passengers traveled through EWR in 2023, highlighting the airport's need for expansion and modernization. 

$29.3

Billion

EWR is an economic engine for the region, contributing more than $29.3 billion annually to the New York-New Jersey metropolitan region. 

23,000

Jobs

EWR employs approximately 23,000 people in industries ranging from logistics and tourism to retail and hospitality. 

137,000

Regional Jobs

The airport supports 137,000 regional jobs and nearly $12.5 billion in annual wages.

Explore the Projects

A New AirTrain

The Port Authority will replace the outdated AirTrain Newark with a modern, 2.5-mile automated train system to accommodate a ridership forecasted to grow by 50 percent by 2040. A critical component of the airport, the system currently carries about 33,000 passengers and employees daily—or approximately 12 million annually—and provides access to the Northeast Corridor Rail Link Station while connecting terminals, parking lots, and rental car facilities. The new system is expected to begin operation in 2030 and generate 1,380 total job years, $125 million in direct wages, and nearly $300 million in economic activity over the life of the project.

The Vision Plan

The EWR Vision Plan charts a comprehensive reimagining of the airport, with modern terminals and infrastructure, a more intuitive roadway network, and a redesigned taxiway network to accommodate more aircraft and reduce delays. The blueprint allows for future growth while serving the evolving needs of passengers, airlines, and the community. Extensive outreach to airport tenants, operational partners, and the public helped shape the visionary plan.

EWR Station Access

The EWR Station Access project will increase public transit access to Newark Liberty International Airport and New York City for Newark and Elizabeth's underserved communities. The project will enable easier local commutes and streamlined airport access, shortening 40-minute transit trips to EWR and Newark's Penn Station to less than 10 minutes.

 

The project will include an extension of the existing pedestrian bridge over station platforms and tracks to a new public access area off Frelinghuysen Avenue. The public access area will consist of a pick-up/drop-off point for private vehicles, taxis, buses, and for-hire vehicles, along with bicyclist and pedestrian access. Construction is expected to be completed in 2026.

An Award-Winning terminal A

Terminal A is the centerpiece of an airport-wide renaissance designed to establish the airport as a world-class gateway for the New Jersey and New York region. The new 1 million-square-foot Terminal A replaced the previous terminal that opened in 1973. The 33-gate facility features airy, light-filled concourses alongside state-of-the-art digital technology, modern passenger amenities, superior dining and retail options, and an innovative public art program showcasing dozens of local artists. Terminal A has been designed and constructed to the standards of LEED gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.