Santiago will become the first capital in South America to offer a direct underground rail connection to its international airport, with the Línea A of the Santiago Metro scheduled to begin operations in 2032. According to transport authorities, the project will feature a 6.5-kilometer subterranean route, providing a seven-minute transit time between the future Huelén station and the Arturo Merino Benítez (AMB) airport terminals.
Did You Know? The new Line A will utilize 100% autonomous, driverless trains capable of reaching speeds of 80 kilometers per hour, mirroring the technology currently employed in the network’s Lines 3 and 6.
How the new route will function
The project is designed as an extension that integrates directly into the existing Metro de Santiago and RED Movilidad systems. Passengers will be able to access the airport by connecting at the future Huelén station of Line 7, currently under construction near the Hospital Félix Bulnes in the commune of Cerro Navia.
Once on the new line, commuters will travel via a light underground train directly to the airport terminal without surface-level stops. The infrastructure will consist of two terminal stations, two construction shafts, and dedicated maintenance workshops.
Projected costs and travel impact
Authorities estimate the fare for the special airport segment will be approximately $3,000 pesos. This pricing structure is intended to offer a lower-cost alternative to current private transport options, which typically range between $15,000 and $25,000.
The payment system will be fully integrated, allowing passengers to use the same digital and physical validation methods currently used for city buses and the existing Metro network. With an annual flow projected at 9.5 million passengers, the line is expected to shift how residents plan both work-related travel and vacations.
Expert Insight: By standardizing the airport commute into the public transit fare system, the project aims to resolve long-standing issues with traffic congestion on Américo Vespucio and the high costs associated with private taxi or ride-app services. The success of this integration will likely depend on the seamless transition for passengers moving from the deep-level Line 7 platforms at Huelén to the high-speed airport shuttle.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Metro to the airport be inaugurated?
According to projections from transport authorities, the official opening of Line A is scheduled for 2032.
Where can passengers board the new line?
The line will originate at the future Huelén station on Line 7, located in the commune of Cerro Navia near the Hospital Félix Bulnes.
How much will the trip to the airport cost?
The estimated fare for the trip is $3,000 pesos, which will be payable through the standard integrated validation systems used across the Metro and RED Movilidad networks.
How do you think this new connection will influence your travel plans once it opens in 2032?
