United Announces Re-Imagined Newark Hub

United’s Newark gates will get a new design, improved shopping and farm-to-table dining, with all passengers enjoying free access to iPads.

United Airlines has hired the airport management firm OTG to revamp the gate areas and shops at the carrier’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) hub in Terminal C. OTG has taken on similar projects at other airports in the New York City area, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA), as well as United’s new terminal in Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS).

The $120 million project will feature more than 50 new dining and shopping options. OTG plans to partner with celebrity chefs, regional restaurants and local vendors to create a unique airport dining experience.

In a press release announcing the project, OTG CEO Rick Blatstein described the project as more than simply a remodel, “Ultimately, the time spent inside of an airport is very much a part of the journey, and our team envisioned an experience that would appeal to all customers and complement the United brand from terminal to aircraft.”

More exciting than the expanded food and shopping options, the project promises to offer more than 10,000 power outlets and USB interfaces available for passengers waiting for flights. OTG will also make 6,000 iPads available for free public use. Travelers will be able to access Internet, games and even order delivery food to their gate.

OTG will also head-up a team of renowned architects and designers responsible for remodeling the gate areas and creating a “world-class setting that combines comfort with beautiful, free flowing spaces.”

Even before the heavy lifting involved in the remodeling of Terminal C begins, travelers will have a chance to taste the new culinary options. In November, temporary “pop-up” restaurants will begin appearing near United’s gates. Permanent improvements to the concourse will be phased in over the next year and a half.

Plenty of flyers will have the opportunity to take advantage of the new amenities planned for United’s third largest hub. EWR is the twelfth busiest airport in the U.S., but the airport consistently ranks number one for delayed and severely delayed flights according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

[Photo: United Airlines]