The first of 12 trains for the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport Line has arrived in Sydney, marking an important step towards first services on the new line.
The next-gen, three-carriage train travelled 23,000 kilometres from Vienna before being unloaded in Port Kembla and then trucked to Sydney Metro’s new Stabling and Maintenance Facility at Orchard Hills, where the train was assembled.
Design features of the new trains:
- Wide, accessible aisles through the centre of the train – approximately 30 centimetres wider than those on M1 Line trains – to allow for ease of movement for passengers travelling with luggage;
- Room for luggage storage below seats;
- High resolution displays showing real-time flight information via a direct feed from the airport;
- Multiple seating choices in each carriage, including front and rear facing seating for groups, plus traditional longitudinal (sideways) seating;
- Designated wheelchair spaces and accessible areas;
- Hearing loops in all carriages for enhanced accessibility and
- Four bicycle storage spaces on every train.
The remaining 11 trains are due to arrive over the coming months, with dynamic testing on the 23km, six-stop line expected to commence later this year.
“Western Sydney is getting the most technologically-advanced driverless trains in the world to service the new international airport and that growing part of the city,” said NSW Minister for Transport, John Graham.
“We are excited to the see first train unloading at the docks.
“These trains will be unique to the Western Sydney Airport Metro line, providing wider aisles for travellers with luggage, digital screens showing real-time flight information and all modern accessibility features.
“Platforms and gates at the new airport station will be wider to make it a first-class experience when services begin.”
The journey time from St Marys metro station to Airport Terminal Station will be around 15 minutes.
