PANYNJ Unveils Ambitious $45 Billion Vision for Airport Modernisation

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has released a proposed capital plan for 2026–2035, outlining 45 billion USD in long-term investments across its airport system. The programme charts the next decade of development at John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International and LaGuardia Airport, and continues the agency’s strategy of funding major upgrades without relying on state or local tax dollars.

Transforming JFK International Airport

The plan pushes forward the extensive redevelopment of JFK, one of the largest airport modernisation efforts currently underway in the U.S. A key component is a complete redesign of AirTrain JFK, featuring higher-capacity trains and modernised stations to boost reliability and support the airport’s expanding terminals. The first gates of the new Terminal 1 and Terminal 6 are scheduled to debut in 2026, alongside additional improvements to the airport’s internal roadway system.

Advancing Newark Liberty’s Modernisation

At Newark Liberty International Airport, construction on the new 3.5 billion USD AirTrain Newark replacement continues. The upgraded system is planned to deliver longer trains, more dependable service and smoother connections between terminals, parking facilities and the rail station.

Additional initiatives in the proposal include:

• A new community access point connecting local residents to the Newark Airport Rail Station, anticipated to open in 2026
• Ongoing work toward a new Terminal B through a public–private partnership
• Preparations for future expansion at Terminal A, following the completion of its first phase in 2023

LaGuardia Airport: Next Phase of Redevelopment

For LaGuardia, the capital plan provides for the replacement of the 85-year-old Terminal A while preserving its historic rotunda. This next phase complements the recently completed redevelopments of Terminals B and C.

Passenger-access improvements form a central part of the programme, including:

• Upgrades to the LGALink Q70 bus service, supported by a dedicated BQE bus lane and a new on-airport stop
• A new taxi-hold facility at Terminal B equipped with improved driver amenities such as restrooms and a designated prayer area

These upgrades aim to accommodate rising demand while integrating LaGuardia more effectively into the region’s broader transportation network.

Prioritising Sustainability and Climate Resilience

The Port Authority’s climate objectives are embedded throughout the capital plan. Funding has been allocated to help achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions by 2030. Key initiatives include the transition to electric fleets, the adoption of zero-emission ground operations where possible and infrastructure projects designed to withstand increasingly severe weather conditions.

Technology, Automation and Passenger Flow

Digital transformation remains a consistent theme in the proposed plan. Investments continue in autonomous systems, AI-driven tools and emerging air-mobility concepts aimed at improving operational performance, safety and the efficiency of passenger movement across the airport network.

2026 Budget Proposal

Alongside the long-term capital plan, PANYNJ has released its budget proposal for 2026, totalling 10.1 billion USD. Of this, 4.1 billion USD is earmarked for capital projects such as the construction of the new AirTrain Newark, ongoing works at JFK and essential state-of-good-repair programmes at all three major airports.

The agency anticipates sustained passenger demand into 2026, reinforcing the need for expanded terminal capacity, modernised AirTrain systems and improved access infrastructure.