Santiago Airport Light Electric Public Transport System

In 2017, the French energy solutions company Engie proposed a project to Chile’s Ministry of Public Works: the Light Electric Public Transport System – Metro Interconnection – Pudahuel – AMB Airport. The initiative aimed to revolutionise access to Santiago’s airport by improving connectivity with the ENEA industrial sector and surrounding residential areas in the city’s western zone, through a sustainable, efficient, and electric public transport solution.

The original route spanned 12.5 kilometres, connecting the Pajaritos (Line 1) and Barrancas (Line 5) Metro stations with the airport. Designed to operate on segregated lanes with priority at intersections, the system offers a modern and efficient alternative to existing public transport options.

Steer's Role: Demand Analysis and Social Evaluation

Between 2019 and 2024, Engie entrusted Steer with conducting a detailed demand study and social evaluation, aimed at supporting key project decisions.

1. Alternative Assessment: 
   The study explored a range of technology options, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), tram, and light rail, as well as various route configurations, all connecting the airport with the Santiago Metro network.
2. Extensive Fieldwork:
   Transport measurement campaigns were carried out—covering occupancy rates, origin-destination surveys, stated preferences, and more—during both regular and peak (summer) seasons. These efforts helped estimate potential demand, assess current service levels, and characterise urban, airport, and ENEA sector users. The data also fed into the development of mode choice models.
3. Demand and Social Benefit Analysis:
   Using survey-based capture models, passenger demand was estimated for each alternative, with trip purposes broken down into urban, airport, and industrial categories. The analysis also calculated the social benefits associated with each option, identifying the most promising alternative for future development.
4. Fare Evaluation and Integration:
   In the final phase, the impact of various fare levels and integration schemes with the existing public transport system was assessed, helping to optimise the final proposal.

A Step Towards the Future of Sustainable Mobility

This project not only enhances connectivity between Santiago’s airport and the city but also marks a major step towards more sustainable and efficient transport. At Steer, we are proud to contribute our mobility expertise to initiatives that transform communities and strengthen Chile’s urban infrastructure.