Newark Airport's Terminal A clinches a prestigious accolade within the travel industry for its exceptional quality, marking a surprising turn of events for a transit hub long criticized as one of the nation's worst. Despite its historical reputation, Terminal A is undergoing a substantial rejuvenation effort expected to span several years.
The revitalized terminal, representing the largest investment by the Port Authority in New Jersey to date at $2.7 billion, has been honored with a coveted five-star rating by Skytrax, a renowned industry ratings agency. This recognition places Terminal A among an elite group of only 22 airport facilities worldwide distinguished with the highest tier designation, with another such facility being LaGuardia Airport's recently revamped Terminal B.
LaGuardia's Terminal B, a $4 billion endeavor, has notably transformed the traveler experience, shedding its former derogatory label of being "third world," as previously stated by President Biden.
According to Edward Plaisted from Skytrax, Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport stands out for its excellent passenger amenities, intuitive layout, clear signage, and top-notch staff service. Particularly commendable are its integration of digital technologies, diverse dining and retail options, as well as the inclusion of a children's play area and locally sourced artwork, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Moreover, Terminal A boasts a sensory room, offering passengers a tranquil retreat from the bustling environment of the one-million-square-foot terminal. Plaisted highlighted the terminal's exceptional multimedia features as a distinctive aspect contributing to its appeal.
Since its inauguration last year, Terminal A has welcomed an impressive 15 million passengers through its expansive corridors, significantly surpassing previous annual passenger figures prior to the extensive renovation efforts. This surge in passenger traffic underscores the terminal's newfound popularity and improved functionality following its overhaul.