What Is AirTrain Newark?
AirTrain Newark is a modern, driverless rail system that links all terminals at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with the Newark Liberty International Airport Station on New Jersey Transit's Northeast Corridor and the Amtrak network. Operated by the Port Authority of New York and NewJersey (PANYNJ), the system provides a fast, reliable, and free connection between terminals, parking garages, rentalcar centers, and the regional rail hub.
AirTrain Newark traveling between the Terminal A and the airport rail station.
Stations and Route Layout
The AirTrain network consists of four terminal stations (A, B, C, and D), a parkinggarage station, a rentalcar station, and the main Airport Station. The line runs in a loop, providing clockwise service that begins at the Airport Station, continues through each terminal, and returns.
| Station | Location | Key Connections |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Station (EWR) | North side of the airport | NJ Transit, Amtrak, NJRider |
| Terminal A | Southwest side, airlines: Alitalia, Delta, United (Aside) | International arrivals |
| Terminal B | Northwest side, airlines: United (Bside) | Domestic hub |
| Terminal C | Southwest side, airlines: American, Southwest, JetBlue | Highvolume domestic |
| Terminal D | Southeast side, airlines: United (Dside) | Longhaul international |
| Parking Garage Station | Adjacent to Terminal A parking | Longterm & shortterm parking access |
| Rental Car Center Station | South of Terminal D | All major rental agencies |
Tickets, Fares & Payment Options
Traveling on AirTrain between terminals is free. A fare is only charged when you board the AirTrain at the Airport Station to connect with NJ Transit or Amtrak. The fare is the same as a standard NJ Transit or Amtrak ticket for the segment you travel.
- Use a NJ Transit ticket purchased at the Airport Station ticket vending machines.
- Contactless payment (ApplePay, GooglePay) is accepted at the vending machines.
- MetroCard or other NewYork City transit cards are not valid.
- If you have an NJ Transit monthly pass, you can ride AirTrain to/from the station at no additional cost.
Schedule, Frequency & Operating Hours
AirTrain operates 24hours a day, 7days a week, providing continuous service regardless of flight schedules. Trains run every 35minutes during peak periods and every 710minutes late at night.
Typical daytime frequency
- 06:0022:00 Every 34minutes
- 22:0006:00 Every 710minutes
The system is fully automated; doors open only when the train is fully stopped at the platform, ensuring safety and speed.
Travel Tips for Using AirTrain
- Allow extra time. Even though the ride between terminals is under 10minutes, walk times, security lines, and luggage handling can add up. Plan to arrive at least 2hours before a domestic flight and 3hours before an international flight.
- Check terminal assignments. Airline terminals can change, especially during construction. Verify your gate on the day of travel.
- Use the airport app. The official Newark Airport app provides realtime AirTrain arrival estimates, parking availability, and wayfinding maps.
- Accessibility. All stations have elevators, tactile paving, and audible announcements. Wheelchair users can board any car directly.
- Bring a charger. Power outlets are available at most terminals but not on the AirTrain itself. Carry a portable charger for short trips.
- Pet policy. Small service animals are allowed on AirTrain, but pet carriers must comply with airline regulations.
Future Enhancements and Expansion Plans
The Port Authority is continuously evaluating ways to improve AirTrain Newark. Current projects include:
- Signal upgrades: New communicationsbased train control (CBTC) will increase capacity and reduce headways.
- Station enhancements: Expanded seating, digital signage, and WiFi at all AirTrain stations.
- Environmental upgrades: Installation of solar panels on station roofs and regenerative braking systems to lower energy consumption.
- Potential extension: Feasibility studies are underway to connect AirTrain directly to the nearby Newark Liberty International Airport Express Busway, creating a multimodal hub.
These improvements aim to keep AirTrain Newark a benchmark for airport peoplemovers worldwide.
