New Jersey officials joined Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) executives and airport stakeholders to celebrate the opening of the new $2.7 billion Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Airport operator Munich Airport NJ oversees operations, maintenance and concession functions of the new terminal.
The new one million square foot, 33-gate facility represents the largest design-build project in New Jersey history and will replace an outmoded Terminal A that first opened in 1973.
It features state-of-the-art passenger amenities, dazzling artwork, digital technology and dining and retail provided by 60 regional, national and global brands, including six retailers from Newark, Elizabeth, and Jersey City. The terminal also has a modernized common-use check-in area, as well as security and baggage claim areas expected to efficiently handle an estimated 13.6 million passengers a year.
“Newark Airport’s new Terminal A is a world-class 21st century marvel, with cutting edge check-in, security, and touchless e-gate technology. Public art, iconic concessions and highly original digital displays also create an unmistakable New Jersey sense of place,” said Rick Cotton, executive director, PANYNJ. “The new Terminal A at Newark is a shining example of the Port Authority’s commitment to build inspiring and appealing world-class transportation facilities for the region.”
PANYNJ partnered with Xovis, a global leader in 3D sensors and software, to equip the new terminal with state-of-the-art technology 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.
In keeping with the Port Authority’s sustainability goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its facilities by 80 percent by 2050, the new terminal also features a variety of sustainable design initiatives, including integral solar panels on the curbside glass canopy and roof of the integrated parking structure, new electric buses to support shuttle operations, water-efficient fixtures, a “cool roof,” and energy-efficient indoor lighting and controls.
The new Terminal A was designed and built by Tutor Perini/Parsons, with work completed in phases to minimize customer inconvenience. 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.