Arlanda Express: Modern FLIRT Trains Arrive

Stockholm, Sweden – May 20, 2025

The critical Arlanda Express rail link, connecting Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport with the city center, is poised for a significant modernization. A-Train AB, the dedicated operator of this vital service, has announced a strategic investment to renew its rolling stock. This initiative will see the introduction of state-of-the-art FLIRT trains, manufactured by the renowned Swiss company Stadler Rail. The comprehensive agreement, valued at approximately 350 million Swiss Francs (SFr), not only covers the supply of seven new trainsets, with an option for an eighth, but also incorporates a crucial 15-year maintenance contract. This development marks a pivotal step in ensuring the Arlanda Express continues to offer a premium, efficient, and comfortable journey for the growing number of air travelers in Sweden, addressing the needs of an aging fleet and enhancing overall service capabilities for decades to come.

Strategic Fleet Renewal for Arlanda Express

The decision by A-Train AB to invest in a new fleet for the Arlanda Express is driven by a fundamental operational necessity: the current rolling stock, which has reliably served passengers since 1999, is approaching its designated end-of-life in 2029. Maintaining high standards of punctuality, reliability, and passenger comfort on such a prestigious airport connection demands proactive fleet management. The Arlanda Express is more than just a train service; it’s a crucial component of Stockholm’s transport infrastructure, offering a swift and seamless link between the international airport and the heart of the capital. As passenger volumes, particularly leisure travelers, show a consistent upward trend, the need for increased capacity and modern amenities becomes paramount. This fleet renewal program is therefore not merely a replacement of assets but a strategic enhancement to meet future demand and uphold the premium service quality expected by discerning travelers.

Stadler’s FLIRT: Customised for Nordic Requirements

Stadler’s FLIRT (Fast Light Intercity and Regional Train) platform has been selected as the successor, a testament to its versatility and adaptability. For the Arlanda Express, these units will be specifically engineered to meet the unique demands of the route and A-Train’s operational philosophy. A key feature is the bespoke interior design, drawing inspiration from the Nordic aesthetic evident in the A-Train Lounge at Stockholm Central Station. This translates to bright, open-plan carriages with modern furnishings designed to maximize passenger comfort and create a welcoming ambiance. The trains, measuring 165 meters in length, are designed to accommodate 323 passengers, representing a significant capacity increase of over 50% compared to the current fleet. Crucially, they are engineered for resilience against challenging Nordic weather conditions, ensuring operational robustness year-round. Further enhancements include full wheelchair accessibility, generous luggage storage facilities, and a clearly visible customer service counter, all contributing to an improved passenger journey. These trains will operate at a maximum speed of 200km/h, maintaining the swift transit times synonymous with the Arlanda Express service.

Contractual Framework and Production Timeline

The agreement between A-Train AB and Stadler Rail is valued at approximately 350 million Swiss Francs (SFr), equivalent to $419.3 million. This comprehensive package encompasses the delivery of seven new FLIRT trainsets, with A-Train holding an option for an additional unit, providing flexibility for future capacity needs. A highly significant component of this contract is the inclusion of a 15-year maintenance agreement. This long-term commitment ensures that Stadler will be responsible for the upkeep and servicing of the new fleet, a critical factor in guaranteeing high levels of operational availability, reliability, and optimized lifecycle costs for A-Train. This selection reflects A-Train’s confidence in Stadler’s capability to deliver highly customized rolling stock, a sentiment echoed by Stadler, which expressed delight in supplying vehicles for this prestigious line for the first time. The production of these advanced trains is scheduled to commence at Stadler’s primary manufacturing facility in St. Gallen, Switzerland, towards the end of 2026. Following production and rigorous testing phases, the new FLIRT trains are slated to enter commercial service on the Arlanda Airport to Stockholm Central Station route by the end of 2029, coinciding with the planned retirement of the existing fleet.

Elevating Passenger Journeys and Operational Prowess

The introduction of the new Stadler FLIRT trains is set to substantially elevate the passenger experience on the Arlanda Express. Travelers can anticipate quieter journeys, enhanced ride comfort, and the punctuality associated with modern rolling stock. Magnus Zetterberg, CEO of A-Train, highlighted the increasing number of leisure travelers choosing the Arlanda Express, noting that the increased capacity will enable the service to welcome even more passengers. The thoughtful interior design, offering various seating options such as lounge-style sofa seats for groups and designated quieter zones, caters to diverse passenger preferences. Beyond passenger-facing improvements, the new fleet and the associated maintenance contract will bolster A-Train’s operational efficiency. The reliability inherent in new, well-maintained trains reduces the likelihood of service disruptions and minimizes downtime, ensuring a consistent and dependable service. This investment underscores A-Train’s commitment to delivering ‘top-class customer service’ and adapting to evolving travel demands.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the contract awarded to Stadler Rail by A-Train AB for the supply and maintenance of new FLIRT trains represents a landmark investment in the future of the Arlanda Express. This strategic initiative addresses the impending end-of-life of the current fleet, ensuring the continued provision of a high-quality, efficient rail link between Arlanda Airport and Stockholm Central Station. The selection of Stadler’s FLIRT platform, with its bespoke Nordic design, increased capacity by over 50% to 323 passengers, and resilience to harsh weather, underscores a commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and operational reliability. The nearly $419 million deal, which includes a crucial 15-year maintenance agreement, signifies a long-term partnership aimed at optimizing lifecycle costs and maintaining high service availability.

Scheduled to enter service by late 2029, these modern trains will not only cater to the growing number of leisure and business travelers but also reinforce the Arlanda Express’s position as a premium airport transit solution. For passengers, this translates to more spacious, quieter, and comfortable journeys with modern amenities. For A-Train, it means enhanced operational efficiency and the capacity to meet future demand. For Stadler, it further solidifies its presence in the competitive Nordic rail market, showcasing the adaptability of its FLIRT product line. Ultimately, this fleet modernization is a forward-looking move, critical for sustaining a world-class transport service vital to Stockholm’s connectivity and international appeal, promising a seamless and enhanced travel experience for years to come.

Company Summaries

Stadler Rail: Stadler is a Swiss-based international rolling stock manufacturer with a focus on regional and suburban trains, trams, and locomotives. Known for its modular product platforms like FLIRT and KISS, Stadler provides tailored solutions for diverse operational needs worldwide.

A-Train AB: A-Train AB is the private company responsible for operating the Arlanda Express, the dedicated high-speed airport rail link connecting Stockholm-Arlanda Airport with Stockholm Central Station in Sweden. The company focuses on providing a fast, reliable, and comfortable transport service for air travelers.