Minimal Impact at New York Airports After 4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits New Jersey

This is a developing story, and this page will be updated.

New York’s airports are operating close to normal on Friday after a 4.8 magnitude earthquake hit New Jersey this morning. 

There are ground delays at Newark International Airport through Friday evening. The airport also temporarily suspended its AirTrain service and closed its long-term parking lot P6, urging passengers to use short term parking at the terminals.

Recent earthquake activity in the area have caused #EWR Airport flight disruptions. Please check with your airline to determine the status of your flight.

— Newark Liberty International Airport (@EWRairport) April 5, 2024

During a news conference, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul reported that John F. Kennedy Airport has also instituted a ground stop. However, the airport posted on its X (Twitter) page that it is open and operational. LaGuardia Airport is also open and operational. 

Hochul has instructed state transportation agencies to inspect trains, roads, and bridges. Speed restrictions were in effect for a few hours on AmTrak trains as inspections were underway, and normal speed resumed around 3:30 p.m. There were some residual delays on the trains.

The epicenter of the earthquake was in Lebanon, New Jersey (about 45 miles west of New York City), and the effects were felt by approximately 42 million people throughout the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. No major damage or injuries have been reported.