A full-scale prototype of the new metro train for the Western Sydney Airport Metro line has been unveiled, offering a preview of what travel to Sydney’s second airport will look like in the future.
Assembled in a Western Sydney warehouse, the prototype closely replicates the final design in terms of size, shape, and features. The life-size mock-up serves as a key step in refining the project by allowing stakeholders to evaluate the train’s usability, accessibility, and safety features.
Future passengers have been invited to test the prototype and provide feedback on elements such as seat design, handhold placement, boarding ease, and overall comfort. Transport authorities and manufacturers are using the mock-up to assess critical aspects of the train, including lighting, emergency systems, and passenger information displays.
Engineers and designers have also utilized the prototype to validate the layout, materials, and ergonomics, ensuring that the trains meet all specifications before production begins. Feedback from these evaluations has guided final adjustments to the design of the 12 new trains, which are set to go into production later this month.
The design for the train seats has been finalized and will feature a specially commissioned artwork by Western Sydney creative team BBR, led by Dharug artist Leanne Redpath, with contributions from Tina Barahanos and Alexandra Byrne.
The artwork, titled Ngurra Baduwa, reflects the cultural and natural heritage of the Cumberland Plain, where the 23-kilometre metro line will operate. General seating will showcase blue and grey patterns inspired by the night sky, while yellow priority seats will depict daytime scenes of waterholes and wattle fields.
Approximately 2,300 square metres of fabric will be used to upholster all seats across the 12 trains.
The new trains will be fully accessible and designed for passenger comfort. Features include:
- Real-time flight information displays linked directly to the airport;
- Multiple seating options, including front- and rear-facing seats for groups and traditional longitudinal metro seating;
- Wide aisles for easier movement, particularly for passengers with luggage;
- Designated spaces for wheelchairs and bicycles;
- Hearing loops in all carriages.
Each train will accommodate up to 645 passengers, supporting up to 7,740 passengers per hour in each direction between St Marys, Bradfield, and the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.
“No detail has been overlooked to ensure a world-class experience for passengers traveling to and from Western Sydney Airport. The unique upholstery design reflects both Aboriginal heritage and contemporary art, welcoming international visitors with a sense of place,” Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said.
“Each train will be fully accessible, air-conditioned, and designed for a comfortable journey. This metro line will transform how people travel to Sydney’s new airport,” Minister for Transport Jo Haylen added.
The Western Sydney Airport Metro line is scheduled to open alongside the airport, with 12 new trains ready to serve the growing region.
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