The Insider’s Guide to Newark Liberty International, when you’re searching for flights to the Big Apple, three famous letters always pop up alongside JFK and LGA: EWR.

But there is a twist. If you look at a map, EWR isn’t actually in New York. So, what is it, why is it on your New York flight list, and is it actually the “secret” best way to get to Manhattan? Here is the fun, slightly confusing, and very useful truth about Newark Liberty International Airport.

The Identity Crisis: New York or New Jersey?

Technically, EWR is located in Newark, New Jersey.

However, for nearly 100 years, it has been considered one of the three primary “New York City Airports.” In fact, until LaGuardia opened in 1939, Newark was the only major airport serving the New York metropolitan area.

Even though it’s across the state line, it is often closer to Manhattan than JFK is. If you are staying on the West Side (near Times Square, Chelsea, or the World Trade Center), EWR is frequently your fastest route into the city.

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5 Fascinating Facts About EWR

1. It Was the World’s Busiest Airport

In the 1930s, one-third of the entire world’s air traffic passed through Newark. It was a pioneer of aviation history—the first airport in the U.S. to have a paved runway and the first to have a lighted runway for night landings.

2. The “Liberty” Isn’t Just for Show

The airport was originally called Newark Metropolitan Airport. In 2002, the word “Liberty” was added to the name for two emotional reasons:

• To pay tribute to the victims of September 11, 2001 (Flight 93 departed from Newark).
• To honor the Statue of Liberty, which is clearly visible from the windows of planes taking off and landing.

3. It Hosts a “Secret” Restaurant

Inside Terminal C, there is a legendary “invite-only” restaurant called Classified. There are no signs for it, and you can’t just walk in. Only certain high-tier frequent flyers for United Airlines receive an email invitation to book a table there. It’s the ultimate airport “if you know, you know” experience.

4. It Is the “United” Kingdom

If you see a sea of blue and white planes, don’t be surprised. EWR is a massive hub for United Airlines, which handles over 60% of the airport’s traffic. If you’re flying United, you’ll likely find yourself in the ultra-modern Terminal C, which feels more like a luxury mall than a transit hub.

5. It Just Lost its “NYC” Code (Sort of)

In a move that sparked a lot of debate in 2022, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) gave Newark its own city code separate from NYC (JFK and LGA). While you’ll still see it when you search for “New York” on travel sites, it technically stands on its own now.

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Why Travelers Love (and Sometimes Hate) EWR

The Good	The Bad
Fast Access: 25 minutes to NY Penn Station by train.	The Tolls: Driving across the bridge/tunnel can cost $16+.
Terminal C: Excellent food and high-tech amenities.	Congestion: Can have long delays during thunderstorms.
Views: Incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.	Terminal B: Known for being a bit older and more crowded.

Is EWR Right For Your Trip?

If you are trying to decide which airport to pick, use this logic:

• Fly into EWR if: You are staying in Manhattan (West Side), Jersey City, or Newark. It is also the best choice if you are a United Airlines loyalist.
• Avoid EWR if: You are staying in Queens or Brooklyn. You’ll have to travel through the entire city (and pay multiple tolls) to get there, which can take 2+ hours in traffic.

The “Pro” Move

Next time you’re flying into Newark, try to snag a window seat on the left side of the plane (if landing from the north). You’ll get a front-row seat to the Empire State Building and the One World Trade Center as you descend. It’s the best free tour of New York you’ll ever get!