Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the largest and most significant airport in the state of New Jersey, serving as a crucial hub for multiple carriers. Despite recent operational issues, the airport continues to grow and provide passengers with a wide range of travel options. In this article, we will take a closer look at Newark Airport in 2025, including its history, facilities, operational profile, and competition.
A Brief History of Newark Liberty International Airport
Opened in 1928 as Newark Metropolitan Airport, it was the first airport in the New York area with a paved airstrip. In its early years, it was known for building the nation’s first air traffic control tower and was dedicated by Amelia Earhart in 1935. During World War II, it served as a logistics base for the Army Air Corps. Commercial service resumed in 1946, with the airport expanding in the 1950s to accommodate the jet age. Its current name was adopted in 2002 to honor the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Since then, the airport has undergone several renovations, including the opening of a new state-of-the-art Terminal A in 2022.
Facilities at Newark Airport
Spanning over 2,000 acres across Newark and Elizabeth, New Jersey, Newark Airport has three modern terminals (A, B, and C) with a total of 125 gates. Terminal A, known for its efficient check-in and security process, has 33 gates and was opened in 2022. Terminal B, with 24 gates, is home to budget airlines and international legacy carriers. Terminal C, operated by United Airlines, has 68 gates, a Polaris lounge, and upscale dining options. The airport also has two cargo terminals serving FedEx Express and UPS Airlines. It has three parallel runways with a maximum of 81 runway movements per hour. An airtrain connects the terminals, and the airport’s railway station provides access to multiple transit options.
Operational Profile of Newark Airport
Newark Airport serves around 40 million passengers annually, with numbers reaching 48. 9 million in 2024. It is the 13th busiest airport in the US by passenger traffic, handling slightly fewer passengers than nearby JFK International Airport. The airport offers nonstop service to over 180 destinations, including the world’s longest commercial flight to Singapore. However, recurrent congestion issues may lead to a decrease in the airport’s runway movements. The airport’s passenger numbers are affected by seasonal route offerings and the presence of United Airlines, which carries around 68% of the airport’s passengers.
Competition and Challenges
Newark Airport faces competition from JFK and LaGuardia airports. JFK is known as the largest international gateway in the New York area, while LaGuardia primarily serves short-haul business travelers. Newark Airport differentiates itself by offering unique and niche route options, thanks to United Airlines’ diverse network.