Alstom Launches New Depot for Barcelona Airport Trains

Alstom initiates construction of a modern depot to service FGC trains connecting Barcelona with its airport. This facility promises enhanced rail access starting late next year. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The company secures a 15-year contract to maintain Coradia Stream trains at this site near Santa Perpètua de Mogoda. This morning, FGC President Carles Ruiz Novella and General Manager Alicia Valle Cantalejo toured the location.

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Alongside them, Europe President Gian Luca Erbacci and Spain-Portugal Managing Director Leopoldo Maestu celebrated the milestone. Their visit officially kicked off the project for ten trains linking to Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Spanning 3,500 square meters, the depot includes two maintenance tracks, workshops, a warehouse, and staff quarters. Comsa builds this facility, adding a rail connection to the Adif network for seamless operations.

Meanwhile, the 12-hectare project features road access, a track yard, and a dedicated workshop area. Crews also install a third track with wheel-turning gear and a train-washing tunnel.

FGC President Carles Ruiz Novella praised the depot’s role in advancing sustainable mobility across the region. He confirmed faster travel times from central Barcelona to the airport’s terminals.

Additionally, Ruiz noted this service elevates Barcelona-El Prat among top airports for rail accessibility worldwide. The line significantly cuts congestion and supports eco-friendly travel options.

Alstom Enhances Catalonia’s Rail Future

Leopoldo Maestu, Spain and Portugal’s CEO, hailed the launch as a commitment to Catalonia’s growth. He emphasized the Barcelona site’s 1,100 employees as a global benchmark for excellence.

Moreover, Maestu highlighted the company’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer proximity in this initiative. The depot exemplifies local expertise in maintaining modern train fleets efficiently.

During the visit, the delegation reviewed progress on manufacturing the Coradia Stream trains for the route. They inspected an intermediate car and a driver’s cab nearing completion.

Each train carries 656 passengers and offers step-free access from platforms for all travelers. Automatic ramps and ample luggage space cater to airport-bound passengers’ needs.

Furthermore, 20 panoramic screens provide train updates, while nine display real-time flight information. These features ensure a smooth, informed journey for every rider.

The FGC service runs every 15 minutes, connecting central Barcelona to both airport terminals. Spanning 22.7 kilometers with nine stations, it delivers a 20-minute trip.

Alstom Drives Sustainable Mobility in Catalonia

The company boasts over 150 years of leadership in Catalonia’s sustainable transport sector. Employing 1,500 regionally, it pioneers innovations in railway manufacturing and electrification.

This project solidifies the company’s role as a key player in Catalonia’s transport advancements. The Santa Perpètua site remains the region’s sole rolling stock production hub.

Construction advances steadily, aligning with the service launch scheduled for late next year. Travelers will enjoy a faster, greener route to Barcelona-El Prat Airport soon.

Ruiz and Maestu expressed confidence in the collaboration’s impact on regional development and sustainability. Their partnership promises a major upgrade to Catalonia’s transport network.

Ultimately, this depot and rail line boost Barcelona’s global reputation for airport accessibility. The initiative delivers a seamless, eco-conscious travel solution for all.

Source: Alstom

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