United Breaks Ground on New Widebody Aircraft Hangar

United Airlines this week broke ground on a new widebody aircraft maintenance hangar at Newark Liberty International Airport.

The airline, which is investing more than $25 million in the 90,000 square foot facility, expects to complete construction by year end.

“United is committed to the city of Newark, the state of New Jersey and the region,” said Kate Gebo, vice president of corporate real estate. “Construction of this new widebody hangar in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey underscores that commitment and our investment in reliability and service.”

Economic development officials estimate the project will drive more than 200 construction jobs, $12 million in wages and $52 million in regional economic activity.

“This state-of-the-art facility will be the workplace for more than 700 United aviation maintenance technicians,” said Joe Ferreira, vice president of line maintenance. “From this hangar, they will work together to ensure the safety and reliability of United’s fleet and the comfort and convenience of our customers.”

With more than 400 daily departures from Newark Liberty International Airport to more than 130 airports, United and United Express offer more flights from New York/Newark to more cities around the world than any other airline. Approximately 13,000 United employees are based at the airline’s Newark hub.

In October 2012, United broke ground on a 125,000 square foot maintenance hangar at Washington Dulles International Airport.

The airline announced this month that it is also investing more than $50 million to renovate many of its United Club airport lounges.