Do you take flights with Air Canada? To my amazement, the Air Canada Terminal at EWR exceeded my expectations. For Newark, it's remarkably quiet, clean, and modern. The restrooms were cleaned up nicely, and there is a decent assortment of coffee shops and munchies. I detest being lost at airports, so the fact that everything was properly marked was really helpful. Good experience.

Navigating the Air Canada Terminal at EWR: What Every Traveler Should Know

If you’re flying Air Canada into or out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), it’s a good idea to get familiar with your terminal before you travel. Newark is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., and knowing where you're going can save you a lot of time and stress. Whether you're heading to Toronto for business or connecting through Montreal on your way to Europe, this guide to the Air Canada Terminal at EWR will help you feel more prepared and confident.

Where Is the Air Canada Terminal at EWR?

Air Canada operates out of Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport. Recently renovated as part of a major $2.7 billion upgrade, Terminal A has transformed into a sleek, modern travel hub with expanded amenities, improved signage, and a much more passenger-friendly experience overall. If you flew through Newark a few years ago and had a less-than-stellar experience, you’re in for a pleasant surprise this time around.

Once you arrive at Terminal A, finding Air Canada’s check-in counters is pretty straightforward. They’re located on the departure level, near the entrance. Staff are usually available to help, and if you’re traveling with just a carry-on and have checked in online, you can breeze through using the self-service kiosks and head straight to security.

Security and Boarding Process

One of the best things about the Air Canada Terminal at EWR is how streamlined the security process has become. TSA PreCheck lanes are available for eligible travelers, and the new layout in Terminal A tends to move faster than it used to. Of course, peak times (early mornings and late afternoons) can still get crowded, so it’s smart to arrive at least two hours before an international flight.

Once you clear security, you’ll find yourself in a spacious concourse with a solid selection of places to eat, grab a coffee, or pick up last-minute travel essentials.

Dining and Amenities in Terminal A

Terminal A at EWR doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food and drink options. You’ll find everything from quick bites like Jersey Mike’s Subs and Starbucks to sit-down options like Little Spain for tapas or Brooklyn Brewery for a pre-flight beer. The food court area has charging stations at nearly every seat—perfect if you’re topping up your phone or tablet before takeoff.

There’s also a great Hudson News store for snacks, reading materials, and souvenirs, and you’ll find plenty of clean bathrooms, water bottle filling stations, and even art installations throughout the terminal. It’s clear that the redesign of Terminal A was done with the modern traveler in mind.

Lounges and Work Spaces

Unfortunately, there’s no dedicated Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge in Terminal A (at least, not yet). However, travelers with lounge access through other means (like Priority Pass or certain credit cards) can still take advantage of other lounges in the terminal. There’s also a new United Club in Terminal A, but keep in mind that access depends on your ticket and membership level.

If you need to get some work done or just want a quiet corner to relax, there are several designated seating areas with USB ports and outlets. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and it’s pretty reliable, which is always a plus.

Flight Connections and Transfers

If you’re connecting through Newark on an Air Canada flight, the experience is generally smooth. Air Canada flights are typically grouped in the same area of Terminal A, so it’s often just a short walk between gates. However, if you’re transferring to or from another airline (especially United, which operates out of Terminal C), you’ll need to take the AirTrain.

The AirTrain is Newark’s free monorail system that connects all three terminals as well as the parking garages and rental car center. It runs every 3-5 minutes during peak times and takes about 10 minutes to go from Terminal A to Terminal C. Just factor that into your connection time to avoid any last-minute sprints across the airport.

International Travel and Customs

For international arrivals, customs and immigration at EWR can be a mixed bag. Some days it’s a breeze, and other times there’s a bit of a wait. The good news is that Terminal A now has upgraded facilities, including more automated passport control kiosks and better flow for international passengers.

If you're a U.S. or Canadian citizen enrolled in Global Entry, this can speed things up considerably. Make sure to follow the signage, and if you're connecting, you'll usually need to re-clear security after customs—so again, allow enough time.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

The newly revamped Air Canada Terminal at EWR is much more accessible than before. There are elevators, wide walkways, and plenty of seating for those with mobility needs. If you require wheelchair assistance, it’s best to request it in advance through Air Canada when booking your flight.

Families will also appreciate the new family restrooms, nursing rooms, and play areas sprinkled throughout the terminal. Traveling with little ones is always an adventure, but EWR’s Terminal A has taken steps to make it more manageable.

Pro Tips for Flying Air Canada Out of EWR

Here are a few quick tips to make your experience flying from the Air Canada Terminal at EWR even smoother:

1. Check in online and download the Air Canada app. It’s super helpful for gate updates and mobile boarding passes.

2. Arrive early, especially for international flights or during holiday weekends.

3. Bring a refillable water bottle—you can fill it up after security at one of the new hydration stations.

4. Have backup entertainment in case your flight gets delayed. Terminal A is nice, but even the nicest terminal feels old fast if you’re stuck for hours.

5. Use AirTrain wisely if you’re connecting between terminals. It’s free but can get crowded during peak times.

Conclusion

Travel can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. The Air Canada Terminal at EWR has come a long way in recent years. With its modern amenities, thoughtful layout, and improved dining and shopping options, Terminal A now ranks among the better airport terminals in the Northeast. Whether you’re flying to Canada for a ski trip, heading to Europe with a stop in Montreal, or just coming back home from a business trip in Toronto, knowing what to expect at the terminal makes all the difference. So next time you’re traveling with Air Canada out of Newark, rest easy—you’re in good hands.