Essex County Airport (CDW)
Essex County Airport (CDW), unofficially known as Caldwell Airport, is an essential general aviation base for northern New Jersey and the New York Metropolitan Area. This detailed guide to CDW Airport includes information about airport facilities, available aviation services, ground transportation options, and why it has become a popular choice among business, charter, and private travelers.
Essex County Airport (CDW) Overview
Essex County Airport (CDW) is a well-established general aviation airport serving northern New Jersey and the greater New York City area. This overview highlights all the necessary details of the airlines:
| Name of the airport | Essex County Airport |
| ICAO Code | KCDW |
| IATA Code | CWD |
| Number of Terminals | No Passenger Terminal |
| Major Services | Aircraft Charter, Aircraft Management, Aircraft Sales, Helicopter Tours, Aerial Photography, Aircraft Sales, Aircraft Charter |
| Destinations | Tropic Ocean Airways New York Seaplane Base (Seasonal) |
| Owned and Operated By | Essex County Improvement Authority |
| Contact Number | (973) 227-4567 (For Airport Operations) (973) 575-0952 (Essex County Improvement Authority |
| info@flycdw.com | |
| Address | 27 Wright Way, Fairfield, NJ 07004 |
CDW: Terminal Layout and Runway Infrastructure
- At CDW, two asphalt runways are available to serve a diverse regimen of aircraft types. A 4,552-foot by 80-foot Runway 4/22 is capable of handling many corporate jet models and turboprop aircraft. In contrast, the 3,719-foot by 75-foot dimensions of Runway 10/28 are perfectly adequate for lighter aircraft and the general aviation traffic. Both runways combined provide the possibility to operate under various wind conditions with maximum effectiveness.
- The airport operational activity is high over a long period. The airport logged 90,504 aircraft operations during the 12 months ending September 30, 2022, averaging 248 daily movements. Most of these operations (96%) were general aviation, highlighting CDW’s position as a primary regional center for private and corporate flying. Air taxi operations made up 2%, military flights 1%, and commercial traffic was less than 1% of the total operations.
How to Reach Essex County Airport (CDW)?
CDW is conveniently located in northern New Jersey with easy access from New York City and the surrounding areas. This guide outlines the most direct road routes to the airport for quick, efficient travel.
- From New York City (via the George Washington Bridge): After crossing the bridge, take I-80 West to Exit 52 toward Lincoln Park, Fairfield, and The Caldwells. Turn right onto Two Bridges Road and continue for about one mile. CDW Airport will be on your right.
- From New York City (via the Lincoln Tunnel): Exit the tunnel onto Route 3 West, then continue to Route 46 West. You will find the Two Bridges Road exit towards Passaic Avenue, The Caldwells, and Lincoln Park. Turn left at the traffic light and drive for approximately one mile; the airport will be on your right.
Which Airlines Operate At the CDW Airport?
You will not find any prominent commercial airlines at the CDW Airport. It is mainly reserved for business and private jets. You will also find several flight schools at Essex County Airport, like Century Air, Air Fleet Training Systems, P6 Aviation, Essex Air, and so on. For more details on the flight schools and their contact numbers, please check their official website.
Services at Essex County Airport (CDW)
Here’s a table of key services at CDW Airport based on fixed-base operations, charter availability, and general aviation facilities:
| Company Name | Phone Number | Services Offered | Overview |
| Altius | (201) 297-5558 | Aircraft Charter, Aircraft Management, Aircraft Sales | FAA-certified aviation services company offering on-demand aircraft charter solutions across North America and internationally. |
| Charm Aviation | (212) 786-5751 | Helicopter Tours | Luxury helicopter tours showcasing Manhattan and surrounding areas with a premium travel experience. |
| Del Helicopter Services | (973) 835-0726 | Aerial Photography | Provides professional aerial photography services using helicopters for specialized aviation needs. |
| Pro-Star Pilatus Center | (973) 446-0010 | Aircraft Sales | Specializes in aircraft sales, with a focus on Pilatus aircraft solutions. |
| Zip Aviation | (212) 422-1700 | Aircraft Charter | Offers private aircraft charter services, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. |
Clubs and Organizations at Essex County Airport (CDW)
CDW Airport has several clubs and organizations, as mentioned below:
- Cost Guard Auxiliary Airstaion Coldwell, Flotilla 10-20
- Paramus Flying Club
- E.A.A Young Egales Program
- Eagle Flight Squadron
- E.A.A Garden State Chapter 73
Conclusion:
Essex County Airport (CDW) stands out as a vital general aviation hub in northern New Jersey, offering efficient facilities, flexible runway access, and a strong range of aviation services. From charter operators and FBO support to convenient access from New York City, CDW provides a reliable, well-equipped airport experience for business, private, and recreational flyers alike.
FAQs
Essex County Airport (CDW) is a public-use general aviation airport serving northern New Jersey. It primarily supports private aircraft, business jets, charter flights, flight training, and helicopter operations. The airport does not handle scheduled commercial airline passenger services.
Essex County Airport (CDW) is located approximately 25 miles west of Midtown Manhattan. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive from New York City typically takes 45 minutes to just over 1 hour, making it a convenient option for business and private aviation.
Yes, Essex County Airport (CDW) is well-suited for private and corporate jet operations. Its two asphalt runways, full-service FBOs, fueling services, hangars, and passenger amenities make it a preferred airport for business aviation in the New York metropolitan area.
Charter flights are available at CDW through several on-site and affiliated aviation service providers. Travelers can book on-demand charter services for domestic and international destinations, using a range of aircraft, including light jets, turboprops, helicopters, and larger business jets.