Washington Metro Restores Automatic Train Operations Network-Wide

Washington Metro has fully reinstated Automatic Train Operation (ATO) across all rail lines, marking a major advancement in transportation technology for Washington and its transit riders. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The expansion began with the Red Line in December 2024 and now includes the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines. With ATO, train speeds and safety performance have significantly improved across the network.

Don’t miss…Devon Railway at Risk Without Urgent Funding for Final Phase

Washington Metro Boosts Speed and Reduces Delays with ATO

According to Metro General Manager Randy Clarke, ATO increases reliability and passenger safety while lowering operational costs. These benefits make it a major win for both riders and the agency’s long-term efficiency.

Following months of intensive training and testing, the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission gave the green light for full ATO deployment. Since its launch, Metro has recorded no signal violations or safety concerns.

Washington Metro has also reinstated original speed limits. Trains now operate up to 75 mph, especially in outer sections of the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines. Previously, limits were capped at 55 mph.

Starting June 22, travel time will drop by roughly three minutes on each of those three lines. Yellow and Green lines, which adopted ATO in May, will also see savings of one to two minutes.

Washington Transit Upgrade Enhances Efficiency and Reliability

Red Line performance serves as a benchmark. Since December, end-to-end travel time decreased by eight minutes, and Metro expects further improvements on other lines later this year.

Metro Board Chair Valerie Santos described the 16-year return to full automation as a milestone in public transit. She noted that Washington’s renewed focus on speed, safety, and innovation benefits every rider.

Source, photo: www.railwaypro.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: