Port Authority takes steps to advance $2B AirTrain Newark project

The long-awaited, more than $2 billion AirTrain Newark replacement project took another step forward March 23 when the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced it selected three automated-people-mover (APM) system technology firms to advance to the next round of a multiphase procurement process.

The effort will replace the existing, outdated and unreliable AirTrain Newark system at Newark Liberty International Airport with a new, 2.5-mile automated train system. The process will include the design and construction of the new AirTrain’s APM system technology, in addition to the operations and maintenance components needed for a new world-class AirTrain. The first phase of the procurement process also includes furnishing, delivery, installation, testing and commissioning of the system technology.

In December, a Request for Qualification (RFQ) was advertised. From there, the Port Authority narrowed that shortlist down to three finalists: Alstom Transport USA Inc., DCCCA1 Inc. (Doppelmayr), and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America Inc.

The Port Authority says that additional project procurement packages may include:

• Early works packages
• Design package
• 5-mile elevated guideway structure and three stations including back-of-house areas
• Maintenance and control facility for the system technology equipment
• Pedestrian connections from stations to existing airport facilities

“The AirTrain is a critical part of Newark Liberty’s operations, and the existing system is nearing the end of its useful life,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “It is imperative to build a new 21st century AirTrain to serve the new world-class terminals that we are building at Newark Liberty.”

The AirTrain debuted in 1996. In the present, it causes constant headaches and hassles for passengers.

In 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted its final environmental approval for the $2.05 billion replacement project, which officials hope will begin service in 2026.

“As air travel demands continue to grow, this agency is committed to making necessary investments, including spending billions of dollars to modernize our airports and their transportation assets like the AirTrain,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole.

On March 30, the Port Authority will conduct a virtual Minority/Women Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB), and Local Business Enterprise (LBE) Industry Outreach Forum for the APM system technology project opportunity. More information is available here.