Port Authority Advances Digital Infrastructure Strategy, Announcing New Agreement With Boingo Wireless to Upgrade Wireless Cellular and Wi-Fi Connectivity Across Agency Properties
Port Authority Advances Digital Infrastructure Strategy, Announcing New Agreement With Boingo Wireless to Upgrade Wireless Cellular and Wi-Fi Connectivity Across Agency Properties
Boingo Wireless Selected to Deliver Next-Generation Cellular and Free Public Wi-Fi Networks as Part of the Port Authority’s Commitment to Smart, Secure, and Connected Transportation Infrastructure
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey today announced a new long-term agreement with Boingo Wireless, an industry leader in 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity, to deliver next-generation cellular and Wi-Fi networks across its expansive portfolio of properties, including airports, crossings, seaport facilities, PATH stations and the Midtown Bus Terminal. The agreement reflects the agency’s commitment to building a smarter, more connected regional transportation network that leverages technology to improve the passenger experience.
“Through this new contract, we will deliver best-in-class free and fast Wi-Fi, impeccable cellular phone service, and superb connectivity on all fronts to all travelers at our facilities.” - Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton
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Under the competitive award, Boingo will significantly upgrade and expand 5G and Wi-Fi networks across Port Authority facilities. As the Port Authority advances its redevelopment work on some of the region’s most critical projects, Boingo’s work will help power secure, high-performance connectivity to provide a seamless, customer-first transportation experience across the region. Through the Port Authority’s two-decade-long partnership with Boingo, Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International and LaGuardia airports now rank among the world’s best-connected airports.
“Connectivity is as essential to travel today as runways, railroads and roadways,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “Our commitment to strengthening our digital infrastructure ensures that the millions of people who rely on our facilities each day experience secure, high-speed connectivity that keeps pace with modern expectations.”
“Through this new contract, we will deliver best-in-class free and fast Wi-Fi, impeccable cellular phone service, and superb connectivity on all fronts to all travelers at our facilities. In addition, our new data transmission capabilities provide top-grade connectivity for our ground service workers and other back-of-house partners,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “These across-the-board state-of-the-art technology upgrades will support customer service second to none at all of our facilities.”
Currently, independent speed tests place Newark Liberty and JFK second and third for median Wi-Fi performance among major airports worldwide, while LaGuardia has been recognized by Airports Council International survey results for strong passenger satisfaction that include the free Wi-Fi service.
Boingo’s work at Port Authority facilities dates back to 1999, when the agency first entered into a partnership with the company to install and maintain wireless connectivity infrastructure. The new agreement, approved by the Port Authority’s Board of Commissioners in June 2025, calls for substantial expansions and upgrades to neutral host 5G, Wi-Fi and private network infrastructure to meet modern, best-in-class speed, quality and security standards.
Under the new agreement, those services will continue to be provided for free to the traveling public. The agreement is set to run through 2038, with an option for the Port Authority to extend an additional five years to 2043.
“It’s an honor to connect New York and New Jersey’s landmark transportation systems with cutting-edge wireless networks that support the Port Authority’s vision for smarter operations, safer travel and a seamless passenger experience,” said Boingo CEO Mike Finley. “Boingo’s expertise in deploying multi-carrier DAS (distributed antenna systems), Wi-Fi and private networks in major airports and high-density environments ensures that these vital transportation hubs are equipped for the demands of today and tomorrow. Our networks are built to perform and built to delight customers, providing the wireless foundation that powers operations, drives innovation and creates a world-class journey for all who pass through.”
The agreement covers the following Port Authority facilities:
- John F. Kennedy International Airport
- LaGuardia Airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport
- New York Stewart International Airport
- PATH commuter rail stations
- Midtown Bus Terminal
- Holland Tunnel
- Lincoln Tunnel
- Port Newark-Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal
Connectivity is critical to a 21st century travel experience by providing Internet connections to personal services such as mobile ticketing, mobile payments, phone calls, video streaming, biometric screening, security cameras and more. Across these locations, the Port Authority-designed and -operated converged cellular and Wi-Fi networks will support mission-critical operations, enhance public safety and elevate the passenger experience with fast, reliable connectivity. The neutral host network can support 5G and all major carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon. Designed with encryption, traffic segmentation and 24/7 monitoring, the networks also include advanced security features to safeguard travelers, data and infrastructure.
Boingo manages wireless networks at more than 130 airports and transportation hubs around the world, from New York to Los Angeles, London, Dallas, Chicago and San Francisco. Its solutions are built to scale, providing connectivity for small and mid-size airports and transit locations, as well as the world’s largest, most complex venues.
About Boingo Wireless
Boingo Wireless Inc. simplifies complex wireless challenges to connect people, business and things. It designs, builds and manages converged, neutral host public and private networks at major venues around the world. Boingo’s vast footprint of distributed antenna systems (DAS), Wi-Fi, small cells and macro towers securely powers innovation and connectivity in airports, transit stations, stadiums, military bases, hospitals, commercial properties and enterprises worldwide. Learn more at boingo.com.
About The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is a bi-state agency that builds, operates, and maintains many of the most important transportation and trade infrastructure assets in the country. For over a century, the agency’s network of major airports; critical bridges, tunnels and bus terminals; a commuter rail line; and the busiest seaport on the East Coast has been among the most vital in the country – transporting hundreds of millions of people and moving essential goods into and out of the region. The Port Authority also owns and manages the 16-acre World Trade Center campus, which today welcomes tens of thousands of office workers and millions of annual visitors. The agency’s historic $37 billion 10-year capital plan includes unprecedented transformation of the region’s three major airports – LaGuardia, Newark Liberty and JFK – as well as an array of other new and upgraded assets, including the $2 billion renovation of the 93-year-old George Washington Bridge. The Port Authority’s annual budget of $9.4 billion includes no tax revenue from either the states of New York or New Jersey or from the city of New York. The agency raises the necessary funds for the improvement, construction or acquisition of its facilities primarily on its own credit. For more information, visit www.panynj.gov or check out the Now Arriving blog.
Contacts
Melody Walker
Boingo Wireless
mwalker@boingo.com
424-256-7036