Alstom at KLIA: Passenger Transit Revolution in Malaysia

Alstom Revolutionizes Passenger Transit at Kuala Lumpur International Airport

In a significant advancement for Southeast Asia’s busiest transit hub, Alstom has announced the deployment of three cutting-edge Innovia APM R trainsets at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). These new automated people mover (APM) trains, slated to commence revenue service on July 1, 2025, promise a substantial upgrade to passenger experience for the millions of travelers who utilize KLIA annually. This development, a collaboration between Alstom and Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad (MAHB), aims to enhance efficiency, safety, and overall passenger comfort through the integration of advanced technology. The project addresses the growing demands of KLIA, providing a crucial upgrade to the airport’s internal transport network. This article will examine the core features of the new APM system, focusing on their contribution to improved operational capabilities and enhanced passenger experience.

Enhanced Passenger Capacity and Efficiency

The new Innovia APM R trainsets are designed to transport up to 270 passengers per trip, significantly boosting the airport’s capacity. This increase is crucial for handling the ever-growing passenger volume at KLIA. The trains will operate on the newly upgraded Urbalis Flo Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling solution. CBTC, a technology enabling automated train operation, allows for more efficient driverless journeys, optimizing passenger capacity and reducing headways. This advanced signalling system also provides real-time train tracking and control, improving operational reliability and safety. The implementation of CBTC is a key factor in optimizing the overall passenger throughput and making the system highly responsive to fluctuating demand.

Prioritizing Safety and Maintenance with Advanced Technology

Passenger safety is paramount in this initiative. The Innovia APM R trainsets incorporate an advanced condition monitoring system designed to proactively identify and prevent potential faults. This system uses sophisticated sensors to monitor various train components, providing real-time data to maintenance teams. By predicting and addressing potential issues before they lead to failures, the system minimizes downtime and maximizes operational availability. Rigorous testing of the new Alstom trains, conducted by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) from January to June this year, further ensures the system’s reliability and safety standards meet all necessary regulations. This focus on preventative maintenance and advanced monitoring is a critical component of the overall system’s long-term operational efficiency.

Comfort and Accessibility for All Travelers

The Innovia APM R trainsets are specifically designed to prioritize passenger comfort. They include inclusive accessibility features and wider entry and exit points, making the boarding and disembarkation process easier for all passengers, including those with mobility challenges. The trainsets also incorporate smart climate control systems, central train control, regenerative braking to save energy, and other energy-efficient systems. The emphasis on eco-design and advanced technology reflects a broader commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. These features combine to enhance the overall passenger experience, ensuring a more pleasant and efficient journey within the airport environment.

Collaboration and Project Execution

The APM replacement project is a collaborative effort. Alstom led the project, acting as the project coordination lead, and was responsible for the supply and integration of the three new Innovia APM R trainsets and the advanced Urbalis Flo CBTC signalling system. The joint venture between IJM Construction and Pestech Technology (IJMC-Pestech JV) also played a significant role in the project’s execution, demonstrating the complexities and collaborative requirements of large-scale infrastructure development. This project exemplifies Alstom’s expertise in providing complete, integrated transportation solutions, including the delivery and comprehensive integration of the Urbalis Flo CBTC signalling system.

Conclusion

The deployment of Alstom’s Innovia APM R trainsets at KLIA represents a major step forward in airport transportation. The introduction of these new trains, alongside the Urbalis Flo CBTC system, promises to significantly enhance passenger experience through increased capacity, improved efficiency, and enhanced safety measures. The project highlights Alstom’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving needs of the transportation industry. The emphasis on passenger comfort, accessibility, and sustainability further underscores the focus on creating modern, efficient, and environmentally conscious transit solutions. This initiative sets a benchmark for other international airports seeking to modernize their internal transit systems and is likely to influence future APM projects globally.

Company Summary: Alstom

Alstom is a global leader in the railway sector, providing comprehensive solutions for the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of rolling stock, signalling, and infrastructure. With a presence in over 60 countries, Alstom is a key player in the world’s rail transportation market, offering a wide range of products and services, including high-speed trains, metros, and automated people movers. Its focus on innovation and sustainable mobility solutions makes Alstom a vital contributor to modernizing railway infrastructure worldwide.