Keolis in Île-de-France: T9 Tram & Bus Network Expansion

Keolis Awarded Major Contract to Operate T9 Tram and Expand Bus Network in Île-de-France

Île-de-France Mobilités has awarded Keolis a significant contract, valued under a concession agreement known as number 47, solidifying the transport operator’s presence in the region. This seven-year agreement, commencing August 1, 2026, with a potential two-year extension, encompasses the continued operation of the well-established T9 tram line, alongside an expansion of the bus network with 28 new routes in the Seine-Orly area. This decision reflects a strategic move to bolster public transportation, enhance service offerings, and optimize the passenger experience within the densely populated Île-de-France region. This article will detail the scope of the contract, highlight key infrastructure investments, and analyze the operational implications for both Keolis and the wider transport landscape.

T9 Tram Line: A Continuing Success Story

The core of the new contract centers on the continued operation of the T9 tram line. This line, which Keolis has managed since its launch in 2021, serves as a crucial transport link between Paris and Orly, accommodating approximately 100,000 passengers daily. The renewal signifies Île-de-France Mobilités’ confidence in Keolis’s ability to maintain and enhance this vital service. The contract mandates the use of 22 Citadis trams, which already make up part of the existing fleet, ensuring a seamless continuation of service for existing passengers. Furthermore, the agreement demonstrates a commitment to supporting and building upon the region’s successful tram networks.

Expanding the Bus Network and Route 386 Launch

Beyond the tram, the contract’s expansion of the bus network is a key component of the initiative. The agreement incorporates the launch of the new orbital bus line 386, scheduled for July 2027. This new line will connect Bagneux and Vitry-sur-Seine, representing a key step in improving the accessibility and connectivity of the region. The new contract also entails the operation of 28 additional bus routes, serviced by a fleet of 424 vehicles. This fleet will comprise a mix of sustainable vehicles including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, and HVO biofuel vehicles, showcasing the operator’s commitment to eco-friendly transit solutions. The contract also includes the operation of 28 bi-articulated 24-metre electric buses dedicated to the TZen 5.

Operational Infrastructure and Staffing

To manage this extensive network, Keolis will employ approximately 1,900 staff members, working across five operational depots. One of the depots will be solely dedicated to the TZen 5 in Choisy-le-Roi. This substantial investment in infrastructure and human resources highlights the scale and complexity of the project. Ensuring a smooth and efficient service depends on efficient operations from the depots, with the maintenance of the large fleet of vehicles critical to operational success and reliability. Furthermore, the emphasis on a dedicated TZen 5 depot underscores the importance of specialized management and maintenance for this key bus rapid transit (BRT) route.

Enhanced Night-Time Security and Integration

The contract also outlines Keolis’s increased presence in Châtelet – Les Halles, a major transport hub. Keolis will deploy control and security teams to enhance the safety and security of Noctilien passengers. This move is intended to create a safer environment at a major transport interchange for those who use the Noctilien late-night bus service. Furthermore, the initiative underscores a move to integrate Keolis services seamlessly with other public transport options, improving the overall user experience and promoting increased ridership across the region.

Conclusion

The award of this contract to Keolis represents a significant development for the Île-de-France public transport network. The continued operation of the T9 tram line, the launch of the new bus line 386, and the expansion of the bus network all contribute towards improving mobility for residents and commuters. This initiative reflects a broader industry trend, that of prioritizing efficient public transportation. The use of a diverse and sustainable fleet of vehicles demonstrates a clear commitment to environmental responsibility within the public transport sector. The contract’s operational elements, the deployment of security personnel in key interchanges, and the expansion of its regional remit signify the significant role Keolis plays in France’s transport networks and the importance of a secure and well-integrated approach to providing public transport.

Company Summary

Keolis is a global leader in public transport operations, managing a broad portfolio of rail, bus, and tram services in various countries around the world. In France, Keolis plays a significant role in the Île-de-France region, operating several tram and bus lines, as well as preparing for the operation of multiple lines of the Grand Paris Express (GPE), a major new metro system. Their extensive experience in managing large-scale transport projects, incorporating modern technologies and a focus on passenger experience, makes them a key player in the evolution of the French transport sector.