Athens Metro Line 1 Welcomes First Refurbished Train
Athens Metro Line 1 has welcomed its first fully refurbished train as part of a major fleet renewal program for the historic route.
- The first refurbished train entered passenger service on Line 1 on October 7.
- A total of 14 older trains are undergoing complete modernization through 2027.
- Upgrades include new air conditioning, LED lighting, CCTV, and modern passenger screens.
Visitors and travelers using public transport in Athens will benefit from improved comfort, modern passenger information displays, and greater reliability on Line 1 as the rollout continues towards 2027.
A Modernized Fleet for a Historic Route
Athens Metro Line 1 (ISAP) has officially introduced its first fully refurbished train into passenger service, marking the beginning of a comprehensive fleet renewal initiative for the historic urban railway line.
The newly upgraded train is the first of 14 older units scheduled for a complete technical overhaul, 22 years after the last rolling stock addition to the line. According to transport officials, the vehicle successfully completed all required technical and operational certifications before entering regular service.
Passenger Comfort and Upgraded Technology
Commuters traveling on the refurbished train will experience a significantly updated interior environment. Improvements feature modern seating, new flooring, windows, side panels, and energy-efficient LED lighting.
In addition to aesthetic enhancements, the trains have received vital technical upgrades. While retaining their original structural framework, the older motors have been replaced with modern alternating-current propulsion systems alongside updated electrical, pneumatic, and safety equipment. Enhanced air conditioning, CCTV surveillance, and digital passenger information displays indicating upcoming stations and time have also been installed, alongside improved accessibility features for wheelchair users.
Expanded Improvements and Timeline
Work on the broader project is being carried out by Spanish manufacturer CAF on behalf of STASY, with backing from Greece's EU-funded NSRF program. A second train is currently undergoing static testing in Volos, where four units are being processed simultaneously.
Transport executives noted that the modernization effort aims to increase service reliability and enable more frequent schedules with shorter waiting intervals. The entire 14-train program is on track for completion throughout 2027, forming part of wider ongoing investments in the Athens urban rail network extending toward 2030.
