Good news for KLIA travelers , the long-awaited new Aerotrain is nearly ready to roll! After years of issues with the old system, the new trains are now in the final stages of safety testing and are expected to start running by mid-2025.

KLIA's aerotrain is scheduled to be up and running by the second quarter of 2025.
KLIA’s aerotrain is scheduled to be up and running by the second quarter of 2025.
Image credits: KLIA

The hoarding boards around the platforms have been removed, giving travelers a peek at the renovated boarding areas a rather positive sign that operations are almost ready to begin.

What’s happening?

Here’s a quick summary of the situation:

  • The old Aerotrain, which began service in 1998, was officially suspended in March 2023 after a breakdown that left passengers stranded.
  • It faced frequent technical issues over the years and had long surpassed its lifespan, even after minor upgrades in 2010.
  • The new system features driverless, upgraded trains designed to:
    • Carry more passengers
    • Offer smoother rides
    • Reduce waiting times between KLIA’s Main Terminal and Satellite Building
  • The entire replacement project was handled by a consortium that includes Alstom, IJM, and Pestech, all while the airport stayed open.
Test runs are currently in progress.
Test runs are currently in progress.
Image credits: KLIA

Final testing in progress

Before the Aerotrain can officially start operating, the new system must go through several safety inspections:

  • 80 types of checks are being carried out, including emergency braking, system response, and fault detection.
  • One train must complete 2,000 km of problem-free test runs.
  • Two other trains need to each run 1,000 km without any issues.

Many travelers have already spotted the new Aerotrain running trials at KLIA, which is part of the final phase before it gets the green light.

The aerotrain is said to help offer travelers a better travelling experience when in Malaysia.
The aerotrain is said to help offer travelers a better travelling experience when in Malaysia.
Image credits: KLIA

When will it launch?

  • The new Aerotrain is expected to begin service in the second quarter of 2025.
  • It’s still awaiting final approval from the Ministry of Transport and APAD (Land Public Transport Agency).

In the meantime, KLIA has teased the upcoming launch on social media, saying:

“Spotted at the terminal? Yep, that’s our new Aerotrain in action. We’re running final safety tests before welcoming you onboard. Stay tune, it’s almost time!”

The aerotrain is now waiting for approval from the ministry of transport and APAD.
The aerotrain is now waiting for approval from the ministry of transport and APAD.
Image credits: KLIA

So if you’re flying through KLIA soon, keep your eyes open, your next terminal transfer might just be a much smoother ride.

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