Operations for the $1.86 billion METRONET Forrestfield-Airport Link Project are set to begin on 9 October.

This opening date announcement comes as the complex testing and commissioning, including a series of emergency response exercises, enters its final stages, with driver training now underway.

Not only does the Forrestfield-Airport Link provide an 18-minute train journey from the CBD to Perth Airport, it also gives those living in Perth’s eastern suburbs and foothills area more transport choice, with new train stations also at Redcliffe and High Wycombe.

It’s expected an average of 20,000 passenger trips will be made each day on the new rail line in its first year of operation, increasing to 29,000 by 2032.

The Airport Line will be supported by an enhanced bus network connecting surrounding suburbs to the new train stations, adding 26 new buses to the Transperth network.

Transperth will provide more information on timetables and services closer to the opening date.