Hungary has launched a major infrastructure project to build a €1 billion railway line connecting Nyugati station with Ferenc Liszt International Airport. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Hungary has launched a major infrastructure project to build a €1 billion railway line connecting Nyugati station with Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Photo: Budapest Airport

The 9-kilometer line will provide direct access between central Budapest and the airport, located 16 kilometers southeast of the city.

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The project will be implemented through a concession model with private investment. Authorities plan to announce a tender within six months, open to domestic and international companies.

Alongside the passenger line, Hungary is considering the construction of a cargo terminal at the airport, with investment estimated between $428 million and $1.07 billion.

Although the Budapest–Szeged mainline passes just 2 kilometers from the airport, planners chose a dedicated 9-kilometer route linking via Kőbánya to Nyugati station.

Due to limited available space, the preferred option for the airport station is an underground location, minimizing disruption to surrounding infrastructure.

Hungary is responding to a growing passenger flow, which has increased by 14% annually on average. In 2024, the airport set a record with 17.6 million passengers.

By 2030, traffic is projected to rise to 20 million, and by 2040 — to 35 million passengers, highlighting the urgent need to upgrade transport infrastructure.

Hungary to build railway line to airport

This project will improve Budapest’s connectivity and reduce travel time to the airport, benefiting both residents and international travelers.

It will also ease pressure on road networks and contribute to environmental improvements in the region.

Hungary to modernize Budapest Airport infrastructure

The planned cargo terminal will strengthen the airport’s position as a key e-commerce hub in Central Europe. Currently, 84% of cargo comes from the US and Asia.

China alone accounts for 43% of total air freight, underscoring the airport’s growing role as a strategic logistics center in the region.

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