Shanghai's Airport Link Line, which connects the city's two major airports, is set to increase its transport capacity in the new year to accommodate growing passenger demand.
The adjustment comes as the line marks its first year of operation, with ridership exceeding initial projections.
Since its launch on Dec 27, 2024, the line has carried more than 15 million passengers, averaging about 42,800 trips per day.
The line's ridership rose from 33,400 on the opening day to a record single-day high of 68,100 on Oct 8.
Originally designed to serve air travelers commuting between Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport, the line has evolved into a key urban transport artery. Nearly 30 percent of its passengers now use it for daily commuting, with peak periods typically seen on Monday mornings and Friday evenings.
At present, the line mainly operates 4-car trains. Starting from New Year's Day, the operator plans to reconfigure services to run an 8-car train, nearly doubling overall transport capacity.
Service upgrades have also been introduced along the route, including the installation of accessible elevators and real-time flight information displays.
By integrating with Metro lines 9 and 15, the airport link has enhanced connectivity across key districts such as Minhang, Xuhui, and Pudong New Area, helping to fill gaps in the city's north-south rail network.
Source: Jiefang Daily
