Newark Liberty International Airport
Newark, US · about 3 miles (5 km) south of Downtown Newark
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| AirTrain Train · Every 3-15 min | 10-15 min | — |
| AirTrain Other · Every 15 minutes (11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.) | Under 20 minutes | $8.75 (if using public transport) |
| AirTrain Newark + Amtrak to New York or Philadelphia Train · Roughly every 30–60 min | Around 25–40 min to New York Penn Station | Varies by Amtrak service and time |
| AirTrain Newark (Inter-terminal & Rail Link) Train · Every 3–5 min | 3–5 min between terminals and rail station | Free within airport; rail transfer cost via NJ Transit/Amtrak ticket |
Insider notes
Choose Terminal A for its new facilities, like its public art program, creating a more modern travel environment.
Allot extra minutes when using the AirTrain, as it’s essential for navigating between terminals and transport hubs.
The "Value You" program offers discounted retail and dining, an airport rarity worth exploiting.
Welcome
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), just 3 miles south of Downtown Newark, stands out primarily due to its substantial United Airlines infrastructure and its status as a true rail-access airport within the New York region. However, it's not without its quirks: the AirTrain and older B/C terminal complex present unique transit challenges alongside its newer Terminal A.
At a glance
Handling 43.4 million passengers annually, EWR features three distinct terminals: A, B, and C, and is a major hub for United Airlines. If you're flying on United, expect to navigate through Terminal C. For those arriving from New Jersey or New York City, train connections via NJ Transit take about 30-40 minutes and connect you to the AirTrain, which further distributes passengers across the airport.
Terminals & layout
Terminal A, with its 33 gates, is the airport’s newest addition, replacing the older terminal with a modern and light-filled alternative. American Airlines, JetBlue, and Air Canada operate here. Terminal B hosts Delta and Alaska among others, while Terminal C is a United Airlines stronghold. The layout requires careful navigation as terminals are distinctly separated, mandating the use of AirTrain for efficient transfers.
Getting to and from the city
Public transportation plays a pivotal role at EWR. The AirTrain circulates every 5 minutes and is indispensable for accessing terminals, parking, rental cars, and more. A trip costs $8.75 when using public transport. Taxis are readily available with Taxi Service stations at each terminal: immediate access at Terminal A, an 8-minute wait at Terminal B Level 2, 2 minutes on Level 1, and about 4 minutes at Terminal C. Rideshare and rental car services offer additional options.
Traveller essentials
Given EWR's complex layout, take advantage of the airport's dedicated maps to navigate efficiently, particularly if you're connecting through United. The AirTrain is central to transitions between facilities, so budget time accordingly. Passenger experience can be drastically split between the modern ambiance of Terminal A and the comparatively dated B and C terminals.
Dining & shopping highlights
While dining options are currently limited, look out for the "We Value You" logos for more budget-friendly choices. Shops like 3Sixty Duty Free & More and America can be found in Terminal B, while Terminal C features Abruzzo Mercato. For travel gear, 4MNFunction Travel Gear is located in Terminal B, providing essentials for the last-minute traveler.
Lounges
EWR’s older terminals lack dedicated lounge facilities, creating a challenge for comfort-seeking travelers. The new Terminal A does provide upgraded seating areas and amenities emphasized by its modern design, offering a glimpse into the airport's evolving infrastructure.
Insider tips
- Insider: Choose Terminal A for its new facilities, like its public art program, creating a more modern travel environment.
- Time: Allot extra minutes when using the AirTrain, as it’s essential for navigating between terminals and transport hubs.
- Money: The "Value You" program offers discounted retail and dining, an airport rarity worth exploiting.
- Avoid: Optimize your connection strategy via airport maps to sidestep the dated feel of Terminals B and C.
- Insider: Approach train arrivals as transit connections to AirTrain, instead of direct terminal access, for a more seamless experience.
- Local: Take a moment in Terminal A to enjoy its local artist exhibits, a feature absent in other terminals.
- Quiet: Terminal A’s airy design makes it the quietest spot for unwinding before your flight.