The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has started construction on a new AirTrain system at Newark Liberty International Airport. The $3.5 billion project will replace the current AirTrain, which began service in 1996 and is now considered outdated and over capacity.
The new automated people mover will span 2.5 miles and is expected to be operational by 2030. It is designed to support growing passenger numbers at Newark Liberty, with projected daily ridership increasing from the current 33,000 to 50,000 once completed. This expansion comes as part of a broader redevelopment plan for the airport that includes upgrades to terminals, roadways, and taxiways.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy stated, “Newark Airport is the front door to our region – and modernizing the AirTrain system is part of our commitment to reimagining a world-class airport that is worthy of our state. Building on the transformation of Terminal A, the new system will meet an increasing number of travelers and deliver the airport experience they deserve.”
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said, “Breaking ground on a new AirTrain system marks another milestone in the complete transformation of Newark Liberty International Airport into a world-class gateway. This project is about more than just replacing outdated infrastructure. It’s about building the capacity, reliability, and customer experience that millions of travelers will depend on for decades to come as we complete a top-to-bottom reimagining of Newark Liberty.”
Rick Cotton, Executive Director at Port Authority, added: “The new AirTrain Newark is essential to Newark Liberty’s future. It will improve access to the airport, support its continued growth, and knit together the airport’s terminals, rail links, and parking into a modern, unified system. Together with the new award-winning Terminal A and future redevelopment projects, the AirTrain will help deliver the 21st century travel experience that our region deserves.”
U.S Rep. Rob Menendez commented: “The AirTrain at Newark Liberty International Airport is crucial to ensuring efficiency and reliability for passengers and employees. With three new stations and increased capacity, this project further demonstrates our commitment to prioritizing transit infrastructure that meets the needs of every New Jerseyan and visitor who depends on it. I’m grateful to the Port Authority for their efforts and will continue to support their work in Congress.”
U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver highlighted ongoing federal government issues affecting workers but emphasized local investment: “Revamping AirTrain will help make Newark Liberty Airport more accessible and convenient for travelers and employees. It is a critical part of our effort to make EWR a world-class airport... But this project is an important one, right now maybe more than ever. Newark is worth investing in and I am committed to helping make this a top-tier travel hub."
N.J. state Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz said: “The groundbreaking of the new AirTrain system marks another key milestone in Newark Liberty’s transformation into a dynamic travel gateway built for the future... The project will also create new job opportunities, ensuring our local community and economy benefit from this redevelopment."
State Sen. Renee C. Burgess reflected on her past experience working at the airport: “The AirTrain Newark replacement program is an exciting and much-needed project that will enhance...the broader community... Once completed, this project will once again bring meaningful benefits to all who rely on Newark Airport.”
Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin noted global events like upcoming World Cup matches as reasons for infrastructure investment: “With global events like the World Cup approaching...we are doing it again; replacing this system with one built for the next generation."
Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage remarked: "This transformation not only strengthens one of our region’s most vital transportation hubs but also creates new opportunities for Elizabeth residents through local hiring..."
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka praised both development progress and workforce focus: "This new AirTrain system at Newark Liberty Airport is emblematic of two key constants in our city’s ongoing development..."
Jerry Keenan from New Jersey Alliance for Action stated: "Today’s groundbreaking captures exactly what ...the Alliance for Action is all about — bold investment... The new AirTrain will modernize Newark Liberty..."
According to projections by Port Authority officials (see https://www.panynj.gov/airport/en/redevelopment.html), ridership on AirTrain could increase by half by 2040—surpassing what current infrastructure can handle—and when first launched in 1996 served far fewer passengers annually than today.
Doppelmayr was selected in December 2023 as lead designer-builder-operator-maintainer for both vehicles/system; Stantec was chosen summer 2024 as design engineer; Tutor Perini/O&G joint venture was named guideway/station builder later that year.
Contractors must consider diverse subcontractors per agency goals; Doppelmayr must develop local workforce programs focused on long-term operations jobs.
Additional educational partnerships—including with Rutgers University—are underway alongside other business development initiatives intended both grow area employment pools relevant skills training.
As part of its EWR Vision Plan (see https://www.panynj.gov/airport/en/redevelopment.html), other major improvements include plans for expanded terminals B/C (to complement Terminal A opened January 2023), upgraded taxiways meeting latest safety standards allowing faster aircraft movement/deicing capability plus simplified roadway network aimed at improving multi-modal access.
Construction continues on enhanced connections between NJ TRANSIT/Amtrak rail lines via improved station entry points expanding transit options especially benefiting underserved communities around both Elizabeth/Newark.
