It seems like rolling a number each time you fly out of Newark Liberty International Airport, also known as (EWR); some days are effortless, whereas others can be hectic. But I had been pleasantly happy with my recent travels with Air France. Air France EWR Terminal, hosting numerous foreign flights, is where Air France is based. Although it lacks the modernity of Terminal A and the space of Terminal C (United's turf), it fulfilled its function with a touch of European flair.
I anticipated the typical pre-international flight experience: lengthy lines, security snags, and gate uncertainty when I arrived three hours prior to my nighttime trip to Paris. Rather, I discovered a terminal that, despite its somewhat antiquated appearance, worked effectively and exuded a serene, organized atmosphere.
Check-In and Security
The Terminal B check-in area for Air France was well marked. Short queues, friendly staff, and a bank of kiosks for people who hadn't already checked in online made the process easy. I presented my passport, dropped my bag, and got my boarding pass without any problems. Travelers who required assistance with paperwork or baggage were given it by the polite and competent staff.
The wild card is always security, but I passed with ease in around twenty minutes. It seems that they had foreseen the evening surge of planes. EWR employs a central screening room in Terminal B for international flights.
Terminal B Airside Amenities
After clearing security, I took the escalator down to the airside level where Air France gates are located. It’s not the most glamorous terminal — the ceilings are low, and the decor leans a little too retro — but the essentials were there. The seating area near the gate was well-lit, relatively quiet, and featured plenty of power outlets.
There are a handful of dining options in Terminal B. You won’t find gourmet cuisine, but there’s enough to keep hunger at bay: a Dunkin’ Donuts, a Mediterranean grill, a pub-style restaurant, and some pre-packaged snack shops. I grabbed a sandwich and a coffee, and while not memorable, it got the job done. For premium cabin passengers or SkyTeam Elite members, Air France provides access to the Lufthansa Business Lounge, which was a welcome oasis — clean, quiet, with decent food and drink selection, and a great place to relax pre-boarding.
Boarding and Final Impressions
The boarding process was organized. Given the variety of foreign passengers, the Air France staff's composure, efficiency, and multilingualism were beneficial. Priority passengers were handled with ease, while economy groups boarded in a systematic fashion as the boarding procedure proceeded quickly.
All things considered, my encounter with Air France at Terminal B at EWR surpassed my expectations. The terminal isn't as modern or technologically advanced as others, but it's clean, efficient, and manned by experts who keep everything running smoothly. Arrive a little early, be patient with the outdated surroundings, and your trip should start smoothly if you're traveling Air France out of Newark.
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