Which Airport Reigns Supreme: Ewr Or Phl?

is ewr bigger than phl airport

When it comes to air travel, the choice of airport can significantly impact the overall experience. Two notable airports in the Northeast region of the United States are Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). While PHL is known for its convenient parking and efficient ground transportation options, EWR offers a wider range of flight choices and a modern terminal. With varying strengths and weaknesses, travellers often debate which airport is superior and whether EWR is bigger than PHL.

Characteristics Values
Distance from Newark Airport (EWR) to Philadelphia 78-79 miles
Driving time from EWR to Philadelphia 1 hour 43 minutes
Train time from EWR to Philadelphia 1 hour 1 minute
Train cost from EWR to Philadelphia $11-$210
Driving cost from EWR to Philadelphia $14-$21
Parking at EWR Ok; good parking lot
Food choices at EWR Not great
Traffic to and from Philadelphia Airport Bad

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Travel options to/from each airport

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Newark Liberty International Airport is located in New Jersey and is accessible via train, bus, taxi, or car. The Newark Liberty International Airport Station and AirTrain system are fully ADA-accessible, with escalators, elevators, and stairs. At least six NJ TRANSIT trains stop every hour at the airport between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays, with four trains stopping every hour between 9 p.m. and midnight. Tickets for the NJ TRANSIT can be purchased through their mobile app, web ticketing, or ticket vending machines. The AirTrain access fee ($8.50) is already included in the ticket price when purchased through these methods.

Ridesharing services such as Uber, Lyft, or taxis are not available directly at the airport station. However, these services can be accessed by proceeding to Newark Penn Station or North Elizabeth Station via train. Additionally, rideshares can be hailed from Parking Garage P4.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Philadelphia International Airport is located in southeastern Pennsylvania and is accessible by various means, including flights from 15 airlines to 175 airports worldwide. The airport consists of four terminals (Terminal A, D, E, and F).

While specific details on transportation to and from the airport are scarce, it is known that the airport offers special assistance and services to meet the needs of its travellers.

Comparison

Both airports offer a range of travel options, with Newark Liberty International Airport providing detailed information on train and ridesharing services. Philadelphia International Airport, being located in a sprawling city like Philadelphia, likely has a comprehensive transportation network as well, but specific details on travel options to and from the airport require further exploration.

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Cost of travel to/from each airport

When it comes to the cost of travel to and from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), there are a few factors to consider, including the mode of transportation and the distance travelled.

For EWR, the airport is located about 13-18 miles from Midtown Manhattan, and there are several options for transportation. Taking a taxi or rideshare is a convenient option but can be expensive, with a ride to downtown Manhattan costing at least $50-70, and Uber or Lyft rides being around $75. The train is a more affordable option, with the NJ Transit train from Newark to New York City costing $15.50, and the journey taking less than 40 minutes. The airport bus or shuttle is also a cost-effective choice, with the Newark Airport Express coach bus offering a one-way fare for $18.70 and a round-trip ticket for $33.

On the other hand, PHL is located just 7 miles from downtown Philadelphia. While there is no information on taxi or rideshare costs to and from the airport, PHL does offer long-term parking for those who prefer to drive themselves. In terms of public transportation, PHL is serviced by several leading international airlines, and flights can be as cheap as $20 for a one-way trip and $41 for a round trip. Booking in advance, comparing prices across airlines, and being flexible with travel dates can help travellers find the best deals on flights to and from PHL.

In terms of overall cost, EWR may be more expensive due to its proximity to New York City and the higher cost of transportation to and from the airport. PHL, being further away from a major city, may offer more affordable flight options, but the cost of transportation to and from the airport may depend on the traveller's preference for public transportation or driving themselves.

Additionally, it's worth noting that both airports service a variety of international and domestic flights, so the cost of airfare will depend on the traveller's origin and destination, as well as their choice of airline and the number of stops.

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Traffic conditions

Travellers report that driving to PHL can be unpredictable, with traffic conditions varying significantly. Some travellers report that the highways around PHL are confusing to navigate, and it can be challenging to find the correct exit. The drive to EWR is described as easier, with better signage and less congested roads. However, travellers should be cautious during peak hours, as traffic congestion can increase significantly.

Public transportation is also an option for travellers. Both airports are well-served by trains, which can be a more predictable alternative to driving, especially during peak hours. The train journey from EWR to Philadelphia takes approximately 1 hour and 1 minute, with hourly departures.

When deciding between PHL and EWR, it is essential to consider the time of day and potential traffic congestion. While EWR may have less confusing highways, travellers should be cautious during peak hours. Additionally, travellers can opt for public transportation, such as trains, to avoid traffic conditions altogether.

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Parking options

If you're driving to Philadelphia Airport (PHL), there are a few parking options to choose from. The airport operates a number of onsite parking lots and garages, including short-term, economy, and valet parking. Short-term parking is recommended for brief visits of up to one hour and is located on the ground level of the garages. The economy lot is a good option for longer stays or for oversized vehicles that cannot fit in the garages. A free shuttle bus service is provided to and from the economy lot, which is also accessible to wheelchairs.

For those with an AAvantage® Mastercard®, there is a dedicated parking lot available, but this is exclusive to cardholders. PHL also offers a valet parking service and an economy lot for those looking for more affordable options. If you're looking for off-site parking, there are a few options available, including the Parking Spot in Newark, which offers a shuttle service to and from the airport. This option, however, can be a long drive, especially if you're coming from a red-eye flight.

Another alternative is to drive to Hamilton and park on top of the garage, and then take the train to the airport. This option may be more convenient if you have a smaller bag and don't want to deal with airport traffic. Keep in mind that off-site parking options may involve additional costs, such as train fares and tolls, so be sure to factor those into your decision.

Overall, PHL airport offers a range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. By planning ahead and considering factors such as duration of stay, vehicle size, and cost, you can choose the most suitable parking option for your travel plans.

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Food options

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) offers a variety of dining options across all terminals. Here are some of the top spots to grab a bite:

  • Jim's South Street Steaks and Hoagies: A popular cheesesteak shop, offering the quintessential Philadelphia food item.
  • Baba Bar: Mediterranean fare, including meze, wraps, and kebabs, located in Terminal B.
  • Bar Symon: Celebrity chef Michael Symon's restaurant offers pierogies, pulled pork sandwiches, and Fat Doug burgers. It can be found in Terminal D.
  • Gachi House of Sushi & Noodles: Features a sushi bar, as well as packaged sushi, sashimi, and hot Japanese entrees to go from Independence Prime in Terminal B.
  • Balducci's: A grab-and-go option for breakfast and lunchtime sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
  • Jamba Juice: Smoothies and juices to refresh you.
  • Aldo Lamberti Trattoria: Grab-and-go pizza, salads, and sandwiches from the renowned owners of Positano Coast and Caffe Aldo Lamberti.
  • Bud & Marilyn's: A retro-styled American comfort food restaurant named after the chef's grandparents, serving dishes like chicken noodle soup, chicken and waffles, and bacon cheeseburgers.
  • Le Bus Cafe: A long-running Philly favourite known for its sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
  • Smashburger: A go-to spot for burgers and fries.
  • Good 2 Go: A convenient option for bottled drinks, snacks, and pre-made salads and sandwiches.
  • WinKitchen: Serves appealing Southeast Asian dishes such as banh mi sandwiches, fried rice, bao, and pho, along with a robust breakfast selection and unique drinks like bubble tea.
  • Local Tavern: Offers a wide selection of beers along with beer-friendly foods like fried calamari, mussels, and a salmon burger.
  • Re:vive: Tex-Mex cuisine with alcoholic drinks and charging stations.
  • The Urban Juicer: A popular all-natural juice bar and eatery offering fresh smoothies and natural grab-and-go meals and snacks in Terminal F.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) also has a variety of dining options to choose from:

  • Mediterranean Grill: Affordable falafel sandwiches, chicken shawarma, and vegan options at the Central Plaza Food Court.
  • Playa Bowls: Smoothies and juices from a New Jersey-based chain, located in the Central Plaza Food Court.
  • Shake Shack: A popular burger chain by Danny Meyer, found in the South Pier.
  • Smokehouse BBQ: Burgers and brisket in the Central Plaza near Gates 26 and 27.
  • Sora Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar: A casual sushi counter serving sushi rolls, ramen, and burgers in the Central Plaza Food Court.
  • Starbucks: A convenient coffee option in the Central Plaza North of Terminal A.
  • The Office Tavern Grill: A sit-down tavern with locations across New Jersey, serving Buffalo wings and burgers in the Central Plaza South.
  • Town Bar + Kitchen: A versatile bar menu featuring shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, Margherita pizza, and short rib mac and cheese.
  • Belgian Beer Cafe: Enjoy bottled and draft beer along with burgers, beef stew, and other bar foods in the B2 Rotunda pre-security.
  • Budweiser Brewhouse: A bar dedicated to Budweiser fans in B1 pre-security.
  • Dunkin': Three locations in Terminal B, including baggage claim and international arrivals, for your coffee and doughnut needs.
  • Firehouse Subs: A Florida-based sandwich chain found in the B1 connector post-security.
  • Liberty Eatery: A convenient option for breakfast and Mexican food in the Headhouse North.
  • Little Tony's Pizza: Slices, calzones, and salads in the B1 connector pre-security.
  • Malone's Fish Market: Indulge in lobster rolls, fish and chips, beer, and cocktails in the B1 concourse post-security.
  • Panda Express: The popular Chinese chain known for its orange chicken, located in the Food Hall pre-security.
  • Piattino's: An Italian restaurant serving classic red-sauce dishes like chicken Parmesan in the Food Hall.
  • The Unusual Times: A bar serving roast beef dip sandwiches and other pub foods in the B2 rotunda post-security.
  • Vino Volo: A wine bar with small plates in the B3 Rotunda post-security.
  • Abruzzo Italian Steakhouse: An Italian steakhouse with a menu featuring chicken Parmesan, veal chops, and steaks, located in Gates C70 to 99 post-security.

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