Alstom has announced a five-year extension of its contract to operate and maintain the Plane Train automated transit system at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest airport.
The value of the contract extension is approximately EUR 140 million, and the agreement continues a partnership between the company and the city of Atlanta that has lasted since 1980, when the system first entered service.
An essential system for Atlanta’s airport
According to the company, the Plane Train plays a central role in the airport’s operations, providing a rapid connection between terminals and boarding gates, so that passenger travel within the airport takes only a few minutes.
The automated system runs through a 2.8-mile underground tunnel and is operated by Alstom on a continuous basis, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
In 2025, the Plane Train transported a record 95 million passengers, according to the company.
The contract covers operation, maintenance, and cleaning
The contract extension takes effect immediately upon signing and includes two additional options, each for one year.
The agreement covers:
- continuous operation of the automated system,
- power supply and electrification,
- maintenance of vehicles and the track,
- as well as cleaning of the tunnel, platforms, and other facilities.
Nearly 140 jobs preserved
According to Alstom, the new agreement will enable the preservation and further development of nearly 140 direct jobs in Atlanta.
The company says the local team works continuously to support the safe and efficient operation of the system at an airport that operates around the clock.
Additional investments in the fleet and infrastructure
In addition to the new contract extension, Alstom is also involved in two investment projects for the Atlanta airport: The company states that these measures will increase the system’s capacity, allowing for a higher number of trains per hour.
- the modernization of the system’s infrastructure,
- and the delivery of 63 vehicles Innovia APM R to expand and renew the fleet.
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