The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ) is to spend $2.4bn on replacing the existing jaded terminal at Newark Liberty International Airport with a new one million square foot Terminal A common-use terminal by 2022.

The new facility will be delivered in phases to minimize customer disruption and the master plan – approved last March – is expected to generate more than 10,000 jobs and $998m in direct payroll wages – plus $3.9bn in regional economic activity.

This work will also include three roadway bridges connecting the existing terminal area to the new Terminal A.

LARGE NEW CONCESSION AREAS

Under the existing design plan, the centre of the terminal is where passengers will flow down from the security screening area located on the Departures Level and this is where considerable F&B and retail concessions will be located.

Concessions support areas will also be incorporated into the design to create an invisible space, where goods can be moved around out of sight of passengers.

Concessions and support space is also being provided at the east end of the pier, with access to the apron level below, while the north pier concourse zone will have access to six gates, smaller concessions and retail support spaces – as will the south pier.

The PANYNJ says it believes the new terminal will ‘set a new standard for air travel’ as it replaces the 44-year old existing facility which is jaded to say the least.

CURRENT TERMINAL IS WELL OVER CAPACITY

It has also been operating at one million passengers a year over the 9m total capacity it was originally designed for.

The new state-of-the-art terminal will include 33 gates, a parking garage complex and the capacity to accommodate 13.6m passengers a year, while retaining flexibility for future expansion subject to future passenger demand.

Governor Chris Christie commented: “Newark Liberty International Airport is an essential economic engine for New Jersey, generating thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in activity.

“Providing state-of-the-art terminals and an unparalleled customer experience is critical to ensuring reliable, on-time departures and arrivals, improving quality of life, boosting economic growth opportunities and enhancing tourism in this state.

EXPANSION NEEDED NOW TO MEET FUTURE DEMAND

“This project is especially important, given an expected surge in air travel demand and the fact that EWR serves as one of the most prominent US gateways for travellers and businesses from all across the world.”

“The existing Terminal A first opened to air passenger traffic more than 40 years ago, and it has outlived its useful life,” said Port Authority Chairman John Degnan.

“The new terminal will accommodate more passengers, modern airline fleets, and top-rate customer services and amenities.”