AUSTRALIA: Sydney Metro has unveiled the first three-car train for its Western Sydney Airport line, moving the 645-passenger unit into static testing before dynamic trials begin later in 2026.

First Western Sydney Airport Train Revealed
Photo: Sydney Metro

Western Sydney Airport train enters the test programme

The train reached Port Kembla by ship before being transported to the purpose-built Orchard Hills Stabling and Maintenance Facility for assembly. According to the official Sydney Metro update, stationary checks are now confirming that key onboard systems are powered, connected and operating correctly.

Completion of those checks is a readiness step before dynamic testing on the new line later this year. The remaining 11 trainsets are scheduled to arrive progressively during 2026 and into 2027 from the Siemens Mobility plant in Vienna.

The fleet will comprise 12 fully automated, driverless three-car trains. Under its Western Sydney Airport turnkey contract, Siemens Mobility is also supplying signalling, electrification, telecommunications, platform screen doors and the depot, while providing 15 years of maintenance.

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Airport passengers shape the train interior

The new trains have been configured for travellers carrying luggage as well as workers and local communities. Their central aisles are approximately 30 centimetres wider than those on M1 Line trains, while storage space is positioned below the seats.

High-resolution displays will receive real-time flight information directly from the airport. Each train will also provide multiple seating layouts, designated wheelchair spaces, accessible areas, hearing loops in every carriage and storage for up to eight bicycles.

Seat upholstery designed by Dharug artists Leanne Watson Redpath, Tina Barahanos and Alexandra Byrne reflects connections to Ngurra, meaning Country, and Badu, meaning water. The design links the train interior with cultural journeys across Dharug Country.

Six-station line advances toward operations

Construction continues across the 23-kilometre route between St Marys and Bradfield City Centre via Western Sydney International Airport. Platforms at all six stations are complete, more than half of the 40 escalators have been installed, and 50% of the planned 108 platform screen doors are in place.

Once the line becomes operational, the journey between St Marys Metro Station and Airport Terminal Station is expected to take around 15 minutes. Before metro services start, free buses will connect St Marys and the airport from the arrival of the first passenger flight, operating every 30 minutes with a normal-traffic journey time of about 30 minutes.

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