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Newark Liberty International Airport [EWR] – Ultimate Terminal Guide

BY 

Amar Hussain

- UPDATED: June 10, 2021   |    8

1. Travel  / 
2. Airports

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Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the 11th busiest airport in the U.S. based on 2018 passenger numbers (46,065,175). EWR is a major hub for United Airlines, which operates from each of the airport’s 3 terminals and has sole occupation of Terminal C.

Although none of the airport’s 3 terminals are physically connected to each other, it’s easy to travel between them and the parking garages, by hopping on the regular AirTrain service.

Quick Information

Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Terminals: 3 total: Terminals A, B, and C
Airport Address: 3 Brewster Rd., Newark, NJ 07114
Distance From Midtown Manhattan: 15 miles (24 km)
Website: newarkairport.com
Phone Number: 973-961-6000
Flight Information: Departures and arrival information can be viewed here

EWR Terminal Map

Airlines Operating from EWR

Terminal A

Terminal B

Terminal C

• United Airlines

EWR Airport Terminals

Newark Airport is an oval shape, with the terminals, short-term parking lots, and road system on the inside, and the departure concourses on the outside.

Terminals A, B, and C are not directly connected to each other via any walkways or bridges, so passengers must ride the AirTrain or shuttle bus to connect.

Terminal A

Flights within the U.S. and Canada operate from Terminal A.

The terminal consists of 3 concourses – A1, A2, and A3 – each with a security checkpoint. This means that if you’re connecting to a flight in the same terminal but a different concourse, you will have to re-clear security.

Concourse A1 has 9 gates numbered A10-A18; Concourse A2 has 10 gates numbered A20-A25, A26A-B, A27, and A28; Concourse A3 has 10 gates numbered A30-A39.

There is an Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge in Concourse A1, a United Club in Concourse A2, and an American Admirals Club in Concourse A3, along with several shops and restaurants in each concourse’s rotunda.

Star Alliance flight passengers can connect to the other terminals by riding the courtesy shuttle bus departing from near gate A28. Other passengers will be required to exit the terminal, ride the AirTrain, and re-clear security at the next terminal.

Terminal B

Terminal B is the main international terminal at EWR, also with 3 concourses. Concourse B1 has 9 gates numbered B40, B41A-B, B43-B45, B46A-B, and B47; Concourse B2 has 7 gates numbered B51-B57; Concourse B3 has 8 gates numbered B60-B68.

There are not many shops and restaurants in the B2 concourse, so passengers will need to make use of the facilities within the other 2 concourses. As the 3 security checkpoints lead into a central concourse area, passengers can move freely between the 3 concourses without having to re-clear security again.

Terminal B has an Art & Lounge, British Airways Galleries Club Lounge, Delta Sky Club, Lufthansa Business and Senator Lounges, SAS Lounge, Virgin Atlantic Lounge, and a USO Lounge.

Terminal C

Terminal C is operated solely by United Airlines for domestic and international flights. Like the other terminals, Terminal C is split across 3 concourses — C1, C2, and C3.

Concourse C1 has 21 gates numbered C70-C75, C80-C88, and C90-C99; Concourse C2 has 15 gates numbered C101A, C102A, C103A-B, C104A-B, C106A, C108A-B, C109A, C110A-B, C111A, C112A-B, C113A-B, C114A-B, and C115A-B; Concourse C3 has 19 gates numbered C120-C128 and C130-C139.

The 3 security checkpoints lead into a central concourse area, so there is no need to re-clear security to enjoy the terminal’s good selection of shops and restaurants.

Terminal C has a United Polaris Lounge and 3 United Club Lounges. To connect to Terminals A or B, passengers can ride the shuttle bus that departs from near gate C70.

Inter-Terminal Transport

Airside Transport (Inside the Secure Area)

United Airlines operates a courtesy shuttle bus to transport Star Alliance flight passengers between terminals.

These buses depart from near gates A28, B67, and C70 and run inside of the secure area, so passengers are not required to re-clear security on arrival at the next terminal. This excludes passengers arriving on international flights as they are required to pass through customs and immigration on arrival, which requires re-clearing security again.

Buses between Terminals A and C run from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and buses from Terminal B to Terminals A and C run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Landside Transport (Outside of the Secure Area)

The AirTrain is an easy mode of transport to get around Newark Airport, however, it operates outside of the secure area, so it’s necessary to re-clear security at the next terminal.

Within airport property, the train is free to ride, and this includes journeys between any of the terminals, parking lots, and car rental center. For journeys between the airport and Newark Liberty Airport Station, there is a fee of $7.75 (free for children under 11 years old). From Newark Liberty Airport Station, the journey time to the individual terminals are:

• Terminal C: 7 minutes
• Terminal B: 9 minutes
• Terminal A: 11 minutes

Trains depart every 3 minutes from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., every 15 minutes from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m., and on Saturdays from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Security and Customs at EWR

There are 9 security checkpoints at Newark Airport — 3 in each terminal — and updated waiting times can be viewed on the homepage of the airport’s website.

Customs and immigration can be found in Terminal B and Terminal C as these terminals operate international flights.

TSA PreCheck

EWR has dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at each checkpoint in Terminal A, and checkpoint B1 in Terminal B. There are currently no dedicated lines in Terminal C.

The airport also has a TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center located in Terminal C, level 2 ticketing. The opening hours are Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Hot Tip: If you regularly fly out of EWR, TSA PreCheck can be especially helpful as this airport consistently ranks as one of the 5 worst U.S. airports for longest average security wait times. 

Global Entry

EWR has Global Entry kiosks to expedite clearance of passengers arriving on international flights. For those passengers who have been conditionally approved and require an interview, there is an Enrollment Center in Terminal B on level 1.

Enrollment on Arrival is available in Terminal B between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. and in Terminal C from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Mobile Passport

EWR participates in Mobile Passport Control, and eligible passengers can present their instant receipt and passport to a CBP agent on arrival at the airport.

CLEAR

CLEAR allows expedited security clearance at EWR for approved members and is accepted at Terminal C.

EWR Airport Lounges

EWR has 16 lounges with some exclusively for passengers flying in premium cabins or for elite tier frequent flyer members, and some available to purchase day passes. Many personal and business credit cards offer complimentary lounge access as well.

*Hours are subject to change without notice. Lounge access may be restricted at times due to capacity.
**Day Pass for any passenger. Lounges marked as N/A only allow entry for eligible passengers in their premium cabins, frequent flyer programs, or participating credit card programs.

Priority Pass Access

The following lounges accept Priority Pass entry, but are also subject to capacity allowance:

• Art & Lounge
• Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

Hot Tip: Check out our dedicated Priority Pass guide if you’re interested in becoming a Priority Pass member, and read about the best credit cards for complimentary Priority Pass access.

Airport Dining and Drinks at EWR

EWR has 119 restaurants, bars, cafes, and grab-and-go food outlets. The majority of restaurants are past security, but there is also a reasonable selection of places to grab a coffee or quick bite pre-security.

The selection of eateries can be viewed on the airport’s website.

EWR Airport’s Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

EWR gives passengers access to free and unlimited Wi-Fi within the airport. To connect, select “_Free EWR WiFi.”

There is 24/7 Wi-Fi support by calling 800-880-4117.

Charging Stations: These are located throughout Terminals A, B, and C.

Hot Tip: Charging stations all taken? No worries, check out our recommendations for the best power banks so you’re without a charge.

EWR Airport Lost and Found

If a passenger loses an item on an airplane, then they should contact the applicable airline.

If an item was left at a security checkpoint, then the passenger should contact TSA at 908-787-0667.

For any other locations, passengers can report an item as lost online at the lost and found custodian website.

Additional Airport Information

Information Services

A welcome center is located in the arrivals hall offering passenger information and assistance.

Travelers Aid

There is a travelers aid center at EWR in Terminal B that can also be contacted by calling 973-623-5052.

Children’s Play Areas

There are no children’s play areas at EWR. With no play areas, it’s not surprising that EWR doesn’t rank as one of the top 10 kid-friendly U.S. airports.

Baby Facilities

EWR has 12 nursing suites:

• Terminal A: near gates A10-A18, A30-A39, A1 post-security hall, A2 adjacent to the bus access, and A3 post-security hall
• Terminal B: B1 near gate B47, B2 past gate 51, and B3 near gate B66
• Terminal C: C1 near gate C90, C2 near gate C104 and 107, and C3 near gate C123

Pet Relief Areas

While EWR doesn’t rank among the top 10 pet-friendly U.S. airports, the airport still offers designated enclosed pet relief areas located at:

• Terminal A: A courtyard, outside the west side
• Terminal C: C courtyard outside the east end, south side of the immigration hall, and near gate 131

Duty Free

Duty-free shopping is available in the following locations:

• Terminal A: A Concourse and A2 rotunda
• Terminal B: B1 rotunda, 2x B2 rotunda, B3 rotunda, and near the entrance of Concourse B3
• Terminal C: near gates C70-C99, C101-C115, and C120-C139

Smoking Areas

Designated smoking areas can be found outside of the terminals and includes electronic cigarettes.

Prayer

EWR has an interfaith chapel located between gates C70-C99 and C101-C115.

Money

ATMs are located throughout all terminals, and foreign exchange services can be found in the following locations:

• Terminal A: between Concourse A2 and A3
• Terminal B: near the entrance to Concourse B5, near gates B41, B47, and B57, and in the check-in and arrivals areas
• Terminal C: near gates C90, C107, C120, C131 and in baggage claim

Luggage

EWR does not have any luggage storage facilities for passengers.

Important EWR Phone Numbers

General Inquiries: 973-961-6000

Parking: 888-397-4636

Valet parking: 973-961-6615

Travel to and From EWR

Transport Options

Train

• Amtrak: The AirTrain connects passengers to Newark Liberty Airport Station for Amtrak connections to Philadelphia, New York, and all over the northeast.
• NJ Transit: NJ Transit routes are also available by connecting from the AirTrain at Newark Liberty Station. Various lines serve most of New Jersey and connect to Penn Station in Manhattan.

Bus

• NJ Transit Bus: Newark Airport is served by bus routes 28, 37, 62, 67, 107 and you can view the schedules here depending on where you’re heading to.
• Express Bus: You can take the Express Bus to New York City with the NYC stop, depending on which terminal you depart from at the airport. The service from Terminal A stops at Grand Central Station, the service from Terminal B stops at Bryant Park, and the service from Terminal C stops at the Port Authority Bus Terminal. These operate 5 a.m. until 1 a.m and cost $18 one-way or $30 return.

Shuttle

Shared-ride and private ride shuttles are available to book on arrival at the welcome center of each terminal. A list of recommended shuttle providers can be viewed here.

Taxi

Metered taxis are available from outside all terminals with taxis to New York City costing $50-$70, depending on your destination (excluding tolls and tip). During morning and evening rush hours a $5 surcharge is added to all journeys to New York City.

Ride Services

Uber and Lyft are both approved ride services permitted to operate to/from Newark Airport. Drop-offs are the same as regular passengers outside the applicable terminal on the departures level and arrivals are on the baggage level.

Directions by Car to EWR

Arriving From Midtown Manhattan

Take the Lincoln Tunnel and then the I-95 exit merging onto NJ-495 West. Use the left lanes to take the New Jersey Turnpike south exit and merge onto I-95 South. Take exit 14-14C towards US-1/US-9/US-22 and continue onto I-78 West. Take exit 57 towards US-1 South/US-9 South and use the left 2 lanes to exit to the airport.

Arriving From Philadelphia (the South)

Take I-95 North towards Elizabeth and take exit 13A towards Elizabeth Seaport/Newark Airport. Continue onto NJ-81 North and follow signs for US 1/US 9/Newark/Elizabeth. Use the left 2 lanes to take the exit towards US 1-9/Newark to the airport.

EWR Airport Parking Information

Official Airport Parking

Newark Airport offers short-term, daily, and long-term economy parking options to suit all budgets.

Short-Term Parking

The short term parking lots are located across from the terminals with a large uncovered lot serving Terminals A and B and a smaller separate lot serving Terminal C with covered and uncovered parking.

The rates are:

• 30 minutes: $5
• Each additional 30 minutes or fraction thereof: $5
• 24-hour maximum: $42

Daily Parking

The daily parking lot is P4 on the map and is accessible by riding the free AirTrain. There are 12 electric vehicle parking stations in this parking lot on the ground level. The cost of parking is slightly less than the short-term parking lots for a daily rate:

• 30 minutes: $4
• Each additional 30 minutes or fraction thereof: $4
• 24-hour maximum: $36

Long-Term Parking

Long-term parking is available at the uncovered economy parking lot, located around 3 miles from the terminals. Regular shuttle buses operate every 5-7 minutes between the parking lot and terminals. Fees are:

• First 24 hours: $20
• Each subsequent 8 hour period or fraction thereof: $10

Pick-Up or Drop-Off Parking

EWR has a cell phone waiting lot adjacent to the P4 parking garage. Family/friends can wait in their vehicles here until they receive a call from the passenger that they are ready for curbside pick-up.

Off-Site and Hotel Parking

The cheapest parking available is not usually on airport property. Off-site lots and hotels will offer more competitive rates. All off-site lots operate a free airport shuttle service as they are located 2-3 miles away from the airport.

Daily parking starts at $6.39, which is a substantial savings compared to parking on airport property. Airportparkingreservations.com is a clear and easy-to-use website with several parking lots on offer.

Parking for Passengers With Disabilities

Parking for disabled passengers is available in all short-term parking lots with the following reduced daily rates:

• 30 minutes: $4
• Each additional 30 minutes or fraction thereof: $4
• 24-hour maximum: $20

Hot Tip: If you’re looking for more information about traveling with a disability, explore our in-depth guide on navigating air travel with a disability.

Parking Contact Numbers

General parking inquiries: 973-961-6421

Valet parking: 973-961-6615

Request a parking extension over 30 days: 310-646-2911

Car Rental at EWR Airport

Car rental companies are based at stations P2 or P3, accessible by riding the free Air Train. These are the rental companies at EWR listed by which station they’re based at:

P2 Station
Alamo: 973-849-4315
Advantage: 800-777-5500
Budget: 800-527-0700
Dollar: 800-800-4000
Payless: 973-242-2124
Thrifty: 800-331-3550

P3 Station
Avis: 973-961-4300
Enterprise: 973-792-0312
Hertz: 973-621-2000
National Car Rental: 973-849-2060

Hot Tip: If you’re planning on heading into New York City, check out our tips to finding cheap car rentals.

EWR Airport Hotels

There’s a wide range of hotels near EWR to suit all budgets. We’ve listed hotels below that are up to 4 miles from the airport (ordered by distance).

Most hotels offer courtesy shuttle services for customers among a whole host of facilities suitable for an airport stopover.

EWR Airport Hotels

Top 3 Hotel Stays Using Points

Staying at the Marriott Newark Airport Hotel couldn’t possibly be more convenient. Not only is the hotel close enough to walk to EWR, but it’s also the only hotel that provides a 24-hour complimentary shuttle to every single terminal!

Aviation fans will love that many rooms have views of the airport, so you can do some plane spotting while you sip your morning coffee. Award nights at the hotel start at 30,000 points on off-peak nights, 35,000 points on standard nights, and 40,000 points on peak nights.

The Holiday Inn Newark Airport offers a 24-hour complimentary shuttle that will drop you off at the hotel’s front door, along with spacious and comfortable rooms to help you relax after a long day of traveling. The onsite restaurant, 450 Bistro & Lounge, delivers delicious Italian, French, and American dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you’re bringing your family with you, kids under 12 eat free at the restaurant at any time of the day. Award nights at the hotel cost just 35,000 IHG Rewards points or you can use your free night certificate offered with the IHG® Rewards Club Premier Credit Card.

If you flew into Newark to catch a sporting event, the Hilton Newark is the hotel for you. Not only will you be right near the airport, but you’ll also have easy access to the Prudential Center and MetLife Stadium.

Don’t forget to take advantage of their 24-hour complimentary shuttle service, fitness center, and indoor pool! Award night redemptions start at 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Hot Tip: If you’re looking to top off your points to stay at any of these options, see our guides on the best ways to earn more Marriott, IHG or Hilton points.

Final Thoughts

As with most major U.S. airports, EWR is undergoing a huge redevelopment to accommodate growing passenger capacity.

The Terminal 1 redevelopment plan is to build a 1 million square foot, 33 gate terminal that will be used for domestic operations and replace the current Terminal A. This will also feature a new parking facility and an enhanced road system to ease congestion outside of the terminal building.

The new terminal will give welcome relief to passengers who are currently experiencing heavy congestion in pick-up and drop-off areas and long security wait times. The project is due for completion in 2022.