Adif has completed 80% of the work in Phase 2 of the new rail link to Barcelona-El Prat Airport – Terminal 1.
The project remains on track to be completed by the end of this year, in line with the current schedule. This progress marks a significant step forward in the development of the infrastructure, which is part of the Transformem Rodalies (Transforming the commuter rail network) plan.
The new double-track route begins on the standard-gauge Barcelona–Vilanova line and runs to the future station at Terminal T1, with an intermediate stop at Terminal T2, where it will connect with Metro Line 9. The total length is 5.2 km, including a 4.3 km underground section, of which 3.1 km – the main section – was excavated using a TBM during Phase 1 of the project.
In the new tunnel, several works have been completed, including construction in the cut-and-cover section, concrete backfilling, and drainage systems. Inside the tunnel, side ducts have been built for low- and medium-voltage railway installations, along with handrails. Cable laying has also been completed, along with the installation of emergency lighting and various fire protection systems.
To complete this project, Adif has recently awarded two contracts with a combined budget of over EUR 4.4 million. These contracts cover the construction of the new main power supply connection and a backup supply connection, both of which are essential for bringing the new infrastructure into service.
In the external area of the new access, which corresponds to the existing standard-gauge tracks, the following works have been completed: geotechnical treatment of the ground; construction of the pergola and adjacent structures; load testing and commissioning of the track running through the pergola; the access ramp for the branch lines; and the construction of embankments and railway platform for the connections to the pergola, as well as the extension of the track platform for Track 4 – an extension of a siding from El Prat station.
To electrify the line, foundations have been laid, and catenary masts and gantries have been installed along the new platform for Track 4, along the alignment of the new main Track 2, and on Tracks 1, 2 and 3.
As for the track work, several turnouts have been installed for the future branch line to the airport. The ballast bed for Track 2 has been laid, sleepers installed, and rails mounted.
Adif has also made significant progress on the three levels of the airport’s underground stations. At Terminal T1 station, work has included the construction of platforms and railway installation ducts, as well as the installation of low- and medium-voltage systems, air conditioning, and fire protection systems. In addition, lifts have been installed, along with staircases for emergency exits. Technical rooms and various communication cores have also been constructed.
At Terminal T2 station, notable work includes the construction and fireproofing of the station entrance structure, the installation of skylight roof panels and ventilation openings, as well as the assembly and painting of the skylights’ metal framework.
Railway installation chambers and ducts have been constructed on the platforms, and electrical, HVAC, and fire protection systems have been installed on the concourse level, platforms, and emergency stairwells. Additionally, technical rooms have been created on each level, and public-use areas have been completed on the concourse level.
In the coming months, work will continue to advance electrification and track works, and will also include further progress in the three key areas of the project: the external zone, the tunnel, and the underground stations.
The new railway connection will bring major benefits to public transport users across the Barcelona metropolitan area. In addition to promoting rail-air intermodality, it will enable direct services between the airport’s two terminals and central Barcelona, as well as the wider Rodalies network. The journey time between Terminal 1 and Sants Station is expected to be around 19 minutes. It is estimated that between 7 and 9 million passengers per year will benefit from this new rail infrastructure.
The new rail link to Barcelona-El Prat Airport – Terminal 1 is expected to play a strategic role in the future operation of the Barcelona rail network, with a total investment exceeding EUR 400 million.
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