A collateral issue in the early campaign was the proposal to route the supersonic airliner Concorde through Newark Liberty Airport. Jersey City mayor Paul T. Jordan opposed the Concorde, claiming it was "a symbol of technology and embodies everything we are presently concerned about in terms of energy consumption and air pollution." However, Jordan sought the endorsement of Newark mayor Kenneth A. Gibson, who wanted the Port Authority to approve test landings. Gibson ultimately backed Byrne for re-nomination, and Jordan dropped out of the race after losing control of the Jersey City party in the mayoral election. The issue faded thereafter.
