philadelphia newark airport

Philadelphia and Newark Airports: A Comparison

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are two major airports serving the Northeastern United States. While both offer extensive domestic and international flights, they differ significantly in terms of size, passenger volume, and overall experience.

Overview of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is a major airport located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. PHL serves as a primary hub for American Airlines and a regional hub for Frontier Airlines, offering flights to destinations across the United States and internationally. The airport features seven terminals, designated A through F and the separate Terminal A-West. It has an annual passenger volume of around 30 million. PHL is generally considered to be easier to navigate and less congested than EWR.

Navigating PHL

PHL offers a variety of ground transportation options, including SEPTA Regional Rail, taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals and a range of dining and shopping options. The airport aims to provide a good passenger experience through services, including accessible amenities and service animal relief areas.

Overview of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), situated in Newark, New Jersey, is one of the three major airports serving the New York metropolitan area, along with JFK and LGA. EWR is a major hub for United Airlines and offers a vast network of domestic and international flights. With three terminals (A, B, and C), EWR handles a substantially larger passenger volume than PHL, frequently exceeding 40 million passengers annually. Because of this higher volume, congestion is a common experience at EWR. To learn more detailed information on this airport, you can consult Newark Airport information on Wikipedia.

Navigating EWR

Getting to and from EWR is possible through various options: NJ Transit trains, Amtrak, AirTrain Newark, taxis, ride-sharing, and rental cars. While offering similar amenities to PHL like Wi-Fi, EWR’s scale can make finding services more challenging. The airport authority has made efforts to improve passenger experience with the new Terminal A and ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Key Differences Between PHL and EWR

The most significant difference between PHL and EWR is size and congestion. EWR, serving a larger metropolitan area, experiences higher passenger volumes, leading to longer security lines, potential delays, and a more crowded environment. PHL, while still a busy airport, generally offers a smoother and less stressful travel experience. Both airports offer a range of amenities and flight options, but the overall experience is distinctly different. Terminal layouts and signage also differ; PHL is generally considered more intuitive. Flight availability to particular destination can also differ between the two.

FAQs

Is Newark Airport bigger than Philadelphia Airport?

Yes, Newark Airport is significantly larger than Philadelphia Airport in terms of passenger volume and the overall footprint.

Which airport is easier to navigate, Philadelphia or Newark?

Philadelphia Airport is generally considered easier to navigate due to its simpler layout and lower passenger volume compared to Newark.

What airlines have hubs at Philadelphia Airport?

Philadelphia International Airport is a major hub for American Airlines and a regional hub for Frontier Airlines.

How can I get from Newark Airport to Manhattan?

You can get from Newark Airport to Manhattan via NJ Transit train to Penn Station, by taking the AirTrain Newark to the NJ Transit station, or by taxi, ride-sharing service, or airport shuttle.

Which airport, PHL or EWR, is usually cheaper to fly out of?

The cost of flights depends on the destination and time of year. It’s best to compare prices for your specific travel dates to determine which airport offers cheaper flights for your destination.

Summary

Both Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are important air hubs in the Northeastern U.S. Newark is significantly bigger and busier than PHL, often making the travel experience more challenging with congestion and delays. Philadelphia offers a more manageable environment with generally smoother navigation. Ultimately, the best airport to choose depends on your specific travel needs, destination, and tolerance for crowds.