The official opening of the new METRONET Airport Line was marked by the first train leaving High Wycombe Station yesterday. 

To celebrate the momentous occasion there was free travel across the Transperth network all day, as well as a Community Open Day at High Wycombe and Redcliffe stations. Free entertainment including an animal farm, live music, kids activities and a sausage sizzle were available for the public to enjoy.

The $1.86 billion project, which was jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State Government, adds 8.5km to Perth’s existing rail network.

20,000 daily trips are expected along the new line in its first year, with trains stopping at all stations between High Wycombe and Claremont.

Trains on the Airport Line operate every 12 minutes in peak, every 15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

The new line is supported by an enhanced bus network, connecting surrounding suburbs to the three new stations and adding an extra 26 new buses to the network.

Parking is available at High Wycombe Station with 1200 bays, and Redcliffe Station with 500 bays, for $2 a day. Both stations feature secure bike shelters and drop-off bays for commuters.

The Airport Line has created 2,000 jobs during the project phase and 153 jobs within Transperth train operations so far.