Orlando International unveils next generation Automated People Mover trains

Orlando International Airport has unveiled models of its future Automated People Mover trains that will replace the current 35-year old vehicles.

After more than 35 years in service and covering more than 2.8 million miles, Orlando International’s original Automated People Mover (APM) trains are due to be replaced. The announcement coincides with the unveiling of next generation models that will connect airport airsides to the main terminal building.

New Automated People Mover trains to be operational by autumn 2017

Commenting on the replacement APMs, Stan Thornton, Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, said: “It is time to retire the original APM cars and bring in the next generation that will continue to provide that wow moment in welcoming visitors to Orlando.”

Frank Kruppenbacher, Chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, added: “Today’s travellers are sophisticated and they expect the United States’ number one travel destination to provide state-of-the-art amenities and services, these new trains do just that.

“These automated people movers are some of the first and last impressions that travellers to Orlando will have of our area so it is our responsibility to make sure it is a positive one.”

The new trains are currently being built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industry. Along with the replacement trains for airsides 1 and 3, trains are also being constructed for the new Automated People Mover station which is currently under construction to the south of the main terminal complex.

The cost for the replacement trains is $90 million while the cost for the new trains servicing the south are included in the overall $470 million south airport APM Complex project budget.