Government keeps new Stockholm- Arlanda rail link on track

“Today’s decision will make it easier for people to get to and from Arlanda,” said Swedish transport minister Åsa Torstensson in a statement.

Currently, the only direct rail link between Arlanda airport and Stockholm is via the privately operated Arlanda Express train, which carries travelers to and from the airport to the city’s central train station.

While the airport is also served by the Upptåget, a commuter rail line running north through Uppsala and on to Gävle, passengers wishing to reach Stockholm via commuter rail must currently switch to the Stockholm commuter rail system in Upplands Väsby.

But following Thursday’s decision, Stockholm transit agency SL will be able to extend the Märsta-Älvsjö branch of its commuter rail line north through Arlanda all the way to Uppsala via the municipality of Knivsta.

According to a proposal approved by the board of SL, the Arlanda-bound commuter trains would be operational by summer 2012.

In announcing the decision Torstensson also emphasized the new rail line’s environmental benefits.

“The decision allows more possibilities for people to take public transportation and as a result will contribute to reduced emissions at Arlanda airport,” she said.