The new 1 million-square-foot Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport transforms the passenger experience with a modern terminal building, enhanced amenities, and efficient processing to serve a diverse fleet of aircraft.

Client
Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
Construction Delivery
Design-Build
PGAL Scope
Bridging Documents, Master Planning, Program Design Document, Programming
Completion Date
2022
Sustainability Achievement
LEED Gold
terminal aerial view

From 2012 through 2016, PGAL served as Prime Consultant and Lead Architect for the advanced planning, concept development, and bridging documents. In 2016, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey selected a design-build team led by Tutor Perini Parsons to deliver final design and construction, with PGAL as Executive Architect ensuring compliance with established performance and design criteria.

The “T” shaped terminal provides 33 domestic gates with common-use technology that supports curbside and lobby check-in, self-service kiosks, and premium passenger options. Security screening is designed for flexibility, offering an expandable checkpoint with dedicated lanes for premium travelers, airline crew, and guests requiring additional assistance. Infrastructure is adaptable to evolving screening and processing needs.

Passenger services are integrated throughout the terminal. Baggage claim includes six units with direct connections to airline offices and operations, while retail, dining, and food and beverage offerings are woven into holdroom seating areas. Gate holdrooms accommodate both narrow- and wide-body aircraft, with self-boarding equipment at every gate. Airline lounges are conveniently located just beyond security, and baggage handling is streamlined with consolidated screening and ramp operations support.

PGAL has been an instrumental partner with the Port Authority in the design and management of the Terminal A Redevelopment Program. The Design Team developed the planning and concept design for the new Terminal and prepared design documentation for a separate Design-Build procurement. PGAL has served as Executive Architect for the program after selection of the Design Builder to ensure that subsequent work conformed to the established concept and design criteria. The PGAL team developed responsive solutions to meet our needs and helped us achieve our goals for the program serving as a true partner in the delivery of the new Terminal A.

James Heitmann
Chief Operating Officer, Port Authority of New York + New Jersey