The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) announced on the 25th of February 2026 that they will begin testing electric autonomous shuttle services at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in the spring of 2026. This initiative is a crucial part of the airport’s comprehensive redevelopment plan, aiming to assess how automated transportation can seamlessly connect existing facilities with future systems to create a more efficient and convenient internal airport shuttle network for passengers.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is collaborating with three autonomous driving technology companies – Oceaneering, Ohmio, and Glydways. The testing will take place in non-public areas of the airport, with each company allotted about two weeks for trial runs. The focus is on simulating a high-capacity shuttle network where multiple vehicles operate simultaneously in the complex airport environment to fully evaluate operational efficiency. According to the schedule, Oceaneering will lead the tests in March, followed by Ohmio in late March, and Glydways in May.
The Port Authority noted that this round of testing also serves as a “qualifying examination” for the future formal procurement process. Kevin O’Toole, Chairman of the Port Authority, stated, “From the moment passengers step into the airport, we aim to provide a smoother and more customer-centric travel experience.” Kathryn Garcia, Executive Director of the Port Authority, highlighted that autonomous vehicles are already being used in various locations worldwide, emphasizing the need for the transportation sector to actively embrace new technologies while developing and integrating multiple modes of transport.
In October 2025, the Port Authority initiated a project to replace the existing light rail system with an investment totaling $3.5 billion, projected to be completed and operational by 2030. Since its launch in 1996, the airport’s light rail system has seen passenger numbers grow from around 30 million to nearly 50 million in 2024. The Port Authority estimates a further 50% increase in passenger flow by 2040, making the current system insufficient in capacity. The new routes will optimize connectivity with the new terminal and allocate expansion space for the future construction of Terminal B.
The Port Authority emphasized that autonomous driving may not necessarily replace traditional buses and will also evaluate conventional electric buses. In recent years, the Port Authority has conducted several autonomous driving demonstrations at JFK International Airport and the Lincoln Tunnel exclusive bus lane, laying the technological and operational foundation for the upcoming Newark airport tests.