Did you know that AirTrain Newark is more than just a way to get around the airport? It is a vital artery connecting terminals, parking, and regional transit. Let’s delve into the story of this crucial system.
AirTrain Newark is a 3-mile monorail. It connects Newark Liberty International Airport’s terminals and parking. It also links to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station. Here, passengers can transfer to Amtrak and NJ Transit trains.
Ground was broken for AirTrain Newark in 1991. The goal was to ease traffic congestion around the terminals. Originally slated to open in 1994, the project faced delays. A change in project management and switch-related issues pushed the completion date back.
Finally, on May 31, 1996, the $354 million AirTrain Newark opened. Initially, it only served as an airport circulator. It allowed passengers to move between terminals. Service was phased in. Trains ran from 5 AM to 11 PM for the first two months. Full 24-hour operation began that August.
Soon after, the tracks were extended to the Northeast Corridor. Construction began in 1997. The extension opened on October 21, 2001. When the system first launched, it used 12 six-car trains. The fleet later expanded to 18 trains.
In September 2000, the AirTrain temporarily shut down. Defects were found in the de-icing mechanisms. The shutdown lasted six months. The AirTrain resumed operations on March 10, 2001.
Von Roll was initially contracted to build the system. Adtranz finished the project. Adtranz acquired Von Roll’s monorail division during construction. Later, Bombardier Transportation acquired Adtranz. Alstom now operates the AirTrain. They operate it under contract with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
AirTrain service was suspended for repairs in 2014. It was shut down from May 1 to mid-July. Repairs finished early. The system reopened on July 3.
The AirTrain’s original lifespan was projected to be 25 years. By 2019, it was clear a replacement was needed. Governor Phil Murphy announced a $2 billion replacement project. He cited the system’s age and frequent breakdowns.
In 2023, Doppelmayr was selected to manufacture the replacement system. The new system will use cable-driven trains. Many parts of the route will follow new paths. The new system will be 2.5 miles long and have four stations.
The AirTrain is free within the airport. However, there is a fee to travel to or from the RailLink station. As of March 1, 2024, this “AirTrain access fee” is $8.50.
The AirTrain has stations at each terminal: A, B, and C. Terminal B and C stations are on top of the terminals. There are also stations for parking lots P3 and P4. The RailLink station connects to regional rail lines.
Originally, there were also stations P1 and P2. P1 was removed in 2019. P2 closed in 2021. The P2 station reopened as the new Terminal A station in 2023.
Automated announcements inform riders about airlines and connections. These announcements are recorded by former traffic reporter Bernie Wagenblast.
AirTrain Newark operates with 18 Von Roll Mk III trainsets. Each train has six cars. The trains travel up to 20 miles per hour.
The current AirTrain Newark is nearing the end of its life. But it continues to serve millions of passengers. It is a vital link in the region’s transportation network. The new AirTrain system promises to improve service. It will meet the growing demands of Newark Liberty International Airport for years to come.