Newark’s Airport Is Getting a Major Transformation — What to Know

It includes new terminals, simplified AirTrain access, and a more efficient taxiway.

By Alison Fox Alison Fox

Alison Fox is a Travel + Leisure contributor. She has also written for Parents.com, The Wall Street Journal, and amNewYork. When she’s not in New York City, she can be found at the beach or on the slopes. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on October 18, 2024

Close Rendering of a new Terminal B at Newark Airport. . Photo:

Courtesy of Newark Liberty International Airport

Newark’s airport is getting a major makeover with a pair of new and enhanced terminals to bring the aging airport into the modern era.

As part of the plan, the current Terminal B will be replaced and Terminal C will be enhanced at the 96-year-old Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey shared with Travel + Leisure. In addition, Terminal A, which opened in January 2023, could also see further expansion.

“Newark Liberty Airport serves as the gateway for millions of passengers, offering them their first welcome to the great state of New Jersey,” the state’s Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement shared with T+L. “The EWR Vision plan will solidify Newark Liberty’s status as a premier regional and international transportation hub. This transformation will not only enhance passenger service but also strengthen the airport’s role as a key economic driver for New Jersey and the surrounding region.”

The Port Authority said the revamped terminals will allow for continued passenger growth and leave room to expand further if needed. The agency said the glow-up is needed since much of Newark’s current infrastructure dates back to the 1970s.

In addition to new terminals, the plan calls for a more efficient taxiway network for aircraft, expanded frontage alongside terminals, and simplified AirTrain access.

Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said in the statement the new plan “lays out a blueprint to transform the airport to accommodate future growth and provide a 21st century travel experience at all of Newark Liberty’s facilities.”

The project is expected to start with a two- to three-year planning process next year, according to the Port Authority.

Beyond the plan itself, Newark Airport has gotten a bit more luxurious thanks to aspects like a new Lufthansa Airlines lounge that recently opened in Terminal B complete with natural wood tones and calm lighting. The airport also offers a pre-security sensory room in its new Terminal A aimed at evoking a serene river scene.

Newark also isn’t alone when it comes to major transformations. An extensive project at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is also underway, which will eventually debut a brand-new Terminal 1, a new Terminal 6 (which will connect to Terminal 5), an expanded Terminal 4, and a revamped Terminal 8.