Newark Liberty International Airport unveiled its new Terminal A today, replacing the outmoded Terminal A that first opened in 1973.
Multiple politicians were on hand for the ribbon cutting, including Governor Phil Murphy, Senate President Nick Scutari, Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole, Executive Director Rick Cotton, and many other elected officials.
In an interview with TLS, Terminal Commercial Manager Frank Radics described the new Terminal A as the centerpiece of an airport-wide renaissance designed to establish Newark Liberty International Airport as a world-class gateway for the New Jersey and New York region.
The $2.7 billion terminal features state-of-the-art passenger amenities, dazzling artwork, digital technology and dining and retail options provided by 60 regional, national and global brands, including six retailers from Newark, Elizabeth, and Jersey City, most of which was shown to TLS during an exclusive tour following the ribbon cutting event and can be viewed below this article.
The terminal features approximately 1 million square feet of space and offers 33 gates to handle larger aircraft, as well as a modernized common-use check-in area, security and baggage claim areas expected to efficiently handle an estimated 13.6 million passengers a year.
In addition to the new terminal, the $3.3 billion Newark Liberty redevelopment program also includes a $400 million integrated public parking garage with new centralized rental car facilities, and $175 million for south airfield paving.
The new terminal is expected to generate more than $4.6 billion in regional economic activity, create more than 2,500 jobs and provide more than $1.9 billion in wages, Governor Murphy’s office said.
Speaking to TLS at the event, Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce founder Duvi Honig noted that with so many of the Jewish community expected to use the new terminal, many issues can be expected to come up, especially during Yomim Tovim times, and the governor’s office, as well as the Port Authority, have been extremely helpful when it comes to building relationships with the community.
“The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce is a proud strategic partner of the Port Authority, and the governor’s office,” he said.
“Through sitting on the restarting New Jersey’s economy committee through Covid, and working together, tirelessly to help build bridges between our community and the Port Authority, we end up with a smooth experience for all and we are proud to join today,” he added.
“We work together as strategic partners with the port authority, state Homeland Security helping strengthen our communities and voice, interest and sensitivities as they travel,” he said, adding that he applauds Governor Murphy for his leadership.
Newark Airport has partnered with Xovis, a global leader in 3D sensors and software, to equip the new terminal with state-of-the-art technology to meet the passenger needs of the modern era.
Xovis sensor technology will be employed at check-in and security, smart restrooms, waypoints, and departure gate doors – all to help reduce wait times, increase overall efficiency of operations, and improve the customer experience.
After completion of a series of system tests, 21 gates will open later this month and the remaining 12 gates will be fully operational in 2023. Internationally recognized airport operator Munich Airport NJ will oversee operations, maintenance and concession functions.
Port Authority officials told TLS Terminal A is expected to open on or around December 8th.
