As we head into the busy holiday season, staying informed will help the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey ensure that travelers’ Thanksgiving trips are as smooth as possible. By checking the latest updates on construction, traffic changes, and pick-up and drop-off locations, travelers can navigate the airport with ease, even as exciting changes unfold at some of the nation’s busiest airports.

The Port Authority’s $30 billion airport redevelopment program is well underway, bringing world-class facilities to Newark Liberty International (EWR), John F. Kennedy International (JFK) and LaGuardia (LGA) airports. These airports are getting a makeover like no other! Travelers can already see the transformation at Newark Liberty and LaGuardia with further upgrades underway, and big plans are underway for a brand new JFK. These ambitious projects are about creating state-of-the-art terminals and world-class facilities while keeping everything running smoothly, even during construction.

Safe travels and may your holidays fly high with joy and sparkle brighter than our new airport terminals!

How the port authority prepares…

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey expects more than 3.2 million passengers to travel through JFK, Newark, LaGuardia and New York Stewart airports from Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, setting a travel record for Thanksgiving, up 2% over 2023. Sunday is expected to be the busiest day.

To mitigate the impact of traffic-related construction on passengers traveling to its airports, the Port Authority has implemented a number of proactive measures. In response to increasing passenger volume, the agency works closely with key federal partners, including the FAA, TSA and CBP, as well as airlines, to ensure a seamless travel experience.

The Port Authority also increases staffing when necessary and coordinates with its partners to minimize disruption. Each airport has a state-of-the-art Airport Operations Center (AOC) with real-time monitoring capabilities, enabling continuous tracking of transport conditions both within and around the airport. These AOCs enable the port authority to respond quickly and efficiently to any changes in the travel environment, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for all passengers.

What travelers should know

The Port Authority is committed to ensuring that every traveler’s journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s how travelers can help make their journeys seamless…

Before the trip:

• Allow plenty of time: Arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights is recommended. This allows time for check-in, baggage handling, security and any unexpected delays. Arriving early also allows time to relax and enjoy airport amenities.
• Check in online: To speed up the airport experience, check-in via the airline’s app is encouraged. Boarding passes can be downloaded or printed in advance for a faster and hassle-free process.

At the airport:

• Confirm flight status: Travelers should always double-check their flight details with the airline before heading to the airport.
• Stay informed: For real-time updates on construction, road closures, and security or customs wait times, it’s a good idea to visit the airport’s website or follow the airport on social media.
• Pre-book parking: Airport parking can fill up quickly, so booking a space at least 24 hours in advance can save both time and money.
• Consider public transport: Taking public transport is an alternative to parking. The airport’s website provides information on available options.
• Come early: Arriving at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights ensures a stress-free experience.
• Sign up for alerts: Signing up for real-time airport updates or following the airport on Twitter will keep travelers informed.

Improved services and amenities:

• Availability: Significant upgrades have been made to ensure greater comfort and convenience for all passengers. Accessible travel services and amenities are available, including sensory rooms for neurodivergent travelers at Newark Liberty International (EWR) Terminal A and LaGuardia (LGA) Terminal C, as well as adult changing tables. For additional information, travelers can visit the accessibility section of each airport’s website.
• Traveling with pets: All major airports offer designated pet amenities, with Newark Liberty International (EWR) and John F. Kennedy International (JFK) standing out as some of the nation’s most pet-friendly airports. These facilities include both indoor and outdoor spaces, often exceeding federal requirements. Features include artificial grass with built-in drainage, replica fire hydrants, wash basins, waste bag dispensers and waste bins, ensuring a comfortable experience for furry travellers.
• Nursing mothers: For nursing mothers seeking privacy and comfort, dedicated nursing pods or suites are conveniently located within each airport terminal. To find the nearest one, just visit the airport’s website and navigate to the “At the airport” section for detailed locations.
• For drivers: In order to reduce congestion and promote smoother traffic flow, those picking up passengers are encouraged to use the airport’s free “Waiting Area – Pick-up/Drop-off”. This designated area helps reduce on-site traffic while providing a comfortable space to wait.

Resources:

For additional travel tips, travelers can check out the attached link here.