Newark Liberty International Airport, located in Newark, New Jersey, is a popular destination for those traveling from Philadelphia. There are several options for getting to the airport from Philadelphia, including driving, taking public transportation, and using a ride-sharing service.
How long does it take to get from Philadelphia to Newark Airport?
Travel time from Philadelphia to Newark Liberty International Airport varies based on transportation mode, traffic conditions, and time of day. Driving typically takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours, though peak traffic near New York can add delays. Train-based routes via SEPTA and NJ Transit offer more predictable timing but require transfers and schedule coordination. If you pass through Manhattan first, a BLADE helicopter transfer for the Manhattan-to-Newark leg, where road congestion is most common, makes the final stretch more predictable. Plan each leg separately to keep delays down.
What is the fastest way to reach Newark Airport when traveling from Philadelphia
For travelers coming from Philadelphia, the fastest way to reach Newark Liberty International Airport depends on where time savings matter most. While the Philadelphia–New York segment is typically completed by train or car, congestion often becomes unpredictable closer to Manhattan and Newark. In these cases, you can book a BLADE helicopter transfer for the Manhattan-to-Newark leg and skip the road traffic. This works best if you arrive in Manhattan first and need a predictable connection to EWR at peak hours.
Options to Get Between Newark Airport and Philly
Driving:
One option for getting to Newark Airport from Philadelphia is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 92 miles, and the drive typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. If you choose to drive, you will have the option of parking at the airport's parking garages or using a private parking lot.
Public Transportation:
Another option for getting to Newark Airport from Philadelphia is to take public transportation. The easiest and most convenient way to do this is to take the SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) Regional Rail to Trenton Transit Center, then transfer to the New Jersey Transit (NJT) train to Newark Airport. The entire trip takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and the cost is approximately $18.
Ride-sharing services:
You can also use a ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft, to get to Newark Airport from Philadelphia. This can be a more convenient option if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. The cost of a ride will depend on the distance and the time of day, but it can be more expensive than taking public transportation.
Blade Helicopter services:
Another option for getting to Newark Airport from Philadelphia is to take a BLADE helicopter. BLADE offers helicopter flights to and from Newark Airport from various locations, including Philadelphia. It suits travelers who value their time and want to avoid traffic. The flight takes about 15 minutes, so you skip the long drive or the train transfers. A BLADE flight costs more than ground options, and the premium buys you time. Book in advance, as availability may be limited.
How helicopter transfers fit into the Philly to Newark route
There are currently no scheduled helicopter flights operating directly between Philadelphia and Newark Airport. Instead, helicopters are used on the high-traffic segments closer to New York City. Travelers heading from Philadelphia typically reach Manhattan by train or car, then use a helicopter transfer for the final leg to Newark Airport. This routing allows travelers to bypass highway congestion near New York, where delays are most common, while still completing the longer Philadelphia segment using conventional transportation.
Bottom Line: Getting Between Philly and Newark Airport
You can get to Newark Airport from Philadelphia by car, public transportation or ride-share. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, one of these options may be more suitable for you. Check traffic and transit schedules ahead of time and plan your trip around them.
