It feels like something we’ve been waiting forever for a train to the airport. And now, Melbourne is one step closer to getting an Airport Rail Link. After the project got off-track, due to a disagreement between the airport and the state government about the location of the station, the airport has finally agreed to place the station above the ground, instead of the more expensive underground option.
“Victorians have waited long enough for an airport rail line,” said Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus. “We will work with the Victorian Government to deliver their preferred above-ground station at the airport so the rail line can become reality.”
When will the Melbourne Airport rail link be open?
The airport hopes that the station will be finished in time to line up with opening of their third runway, which is currently slated for 2030.
“With an estimated 45 million travellers a year predicted to be using our airport when the third runway opens, the rail link will support a massive increase in passenger numbers and billions of dollars in additional economic activity for Victoria,” said Argus. “While Melbourne Airport has consistently advocated for an underground option, we are prepared to compromise on our position to ensure we have more transport options in place for the millions of new passengers that will visit Victoria and the airport precincts expanding workforce.”
However, it’s still uncertain when exactly the Airport Rail Link will be completed. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has confirmed that the project has been delayed by at least four years, due to the disagreement about the station location. This pushes the date back from 2029 until at least 2033. For more information about the project, click here.