Newark Airport (EWR): Your Ultimate Guide To Flights, Parking & More!

Micaela Glover IV 05 May 2025

Have you ever considered the sheer scale of air travel, the intricate dance of planes, passengers, and baggage that makes modern global connectivity possible? Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), a major international gateway to the New York metropolitan area, offers a fascinating glimpse into this world, acting as a critical artery for both domestic and international travel.

Nestled across the boundary of Newark in Essex County and Elizabeth in Union County, New Jersey, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) holds a significant position in the landscape of American aviation. It's one of the three primary airports serving the bustling New York metropolitan area, a testament to its importance. The airport's geographical positioning, roughly 15 miles (24 km) southwest of midtown Manhattan and 60 miles (97 km) northeast of Philadelphia, underscores its role as a vital transportation hub, connecting millions of people to destinations worldwide.

The genesis of its unique airport code, EWR, is rooted in the airport's past. Initially known as Newark Metropolitan Airport, the code evolved over time. This illustrates the history of air travel, which has changed over time. It is a journey through time as the airport transformed through the modern era.

The evolution of airport codes offers an interesting insight. Consider how the codes themselves are assigned. The shift from two-letter codes to three-letter codes necessitated a systematic approach. As a matter of policy, the U.S. Navy secured all codes beginning with "N," leaving Newark to utilize the remaining letters in its name. This resulted in EWR, a code that has since become synonymous with the airport. This story of code allocation provides a small example of the bigger shifts in aviation infrastructure.

The airport's IATA code is EWR, its ICAO code is KEWR, and it's also identified by FAA LID code EWR. The airport's location, set at an elevation of approximately 18 feet (5 meters) above sea level (40 41' 33" N, 74 10' 7" W), reinforces its integration into the metropolitan landscape. EWR's status as a major international airport is further underscored by its role in international passenger traffic. In 2017, Newark Airport ranked as the 60th busiest airport in the United States based on international passenger numbers, illustrating its ongoing contribution to global mobility.

To put into perspective, the sheer scale of the air travel industry and its complexity, consider the story of Dubai International Airport, and its code, DUB. When this airport opened in 1960, Dublin International Airport had already claimed the code DUB. Consequently, the airport at Dubai was assigned the code DXB instead. This underscores the international nature of airport operations and the demand for careful planning in code allocation to maintain order and clear identification.

Newark Liberty International Airport operates with three main terminals: A, B, and C. Terminal A manages domestic and regional flights. Terminal B handles both domestic and international travel. Finally, Terminal C is specifically managed by United. This terminal layout illustrates the internal mechanisms and organizational systems that allow the airport to process the constant flow of travelers.

Newark airport holds a significant spot in history as it was the first major airport in the New York area, opening its doors on October 1, 1928. The opening of the airport symbolized a shift toward the aviation industry.

The airport is strategically positioned, just off the New Jersey Turnpike (Exit 13) and Routes 1 & 9. It is within easy reach of downtown Newark, around 4.3 miles away. For those traveling by road, the airport offers a variety of parking options. Options include EWR parking for $11.99/day, Red Carpet Inn parking for $6.95/day, EMG parking for $4.99/day, Value parking for $14.95/day, and Hilton Newark Airport parking for $10.99/day.

Navigating the airport becomes simpler with knowledge. Contact information, flight details, parking options, and available services can be found online or on the airport's official website. Furthermore, using promo codes like "save10" can activate discounts, such as a 10% discount on long-term parking at the Newark airport.

Key Information	Details
Full Name	Newark Liberty International Airport
IATA Code	EWR
ICAO Code	KEWR
FAA LID	EWR
Location	Newark and Elizabeth, New Jersey, USA
Serves	New York Metropolitan Area
Distance from Midtown Manhattan	Approximately 15 miles (24 km)
First Opened	October 1, 1928
Owned By	Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Main Terminals	A, B, and C

Newark Liberty International Airport has evolved from its origins as Newark Metropolitan Airport. It has been a witness of time. EWR's continuous operation reflects a commitment to maintaining efficient operations and providing reliable service, cementing its place as a key piece of the transportation landscape of the New York metropolitan area.