Grand Paris Express: Testing Accelerates for New Metro Lines as Inauguration Nears
Paris, April 20, 2026 – As the launch of the Grand Paris Express’s new metro lines approaches, testing is intensifying, particularly for Line 18, which is scheduled for inauguration in October 2026. The “super metro” project, aimed at connecting Paris’s suburbs, is seeing significant progress after earlier delays.
The Grand Paris Express, a monumental transport initiative, plans to introduce four new metro lines between 2026 and 2031. Following the extensions of Line 14 to Saint-Denis (Seine-Saint-Denis) and Orly (Val-de-Marne), the project faced some setbacks. However, the pace has picked up, with new deadlines announced and trials progressing rapidly.
Intensified Testing and Automatic Operations
According to Le Parisien, several trains have already completed runs in automatic mode, operating without drivers at commercial speeds of up to 100 km/h. This marks a crucial step in preparing the new lines for public use. Another vital phase currently underway is the delivery of new train sets; seven out of ten have already arrived, with the remaining due by June.
Work is also accelerating within the stations themselves, where the installation of equipment such as furniture, cameras, and loudspeakers is nearing completion.
Line 18 to Lead the Way
Initially, Line 15 South was expected to be the first to become operational. However, it is now the Massy-Palaiseau to Christ-De-Saclay (Essonne) section of Line 18 that will open first. This segment will serve four stations and is anticipated to greatly benefit the 10,000 students and 30,000 teachers on the Saclay plateau.
Progress Across All Lines
The provisional schedule, available on the Grand Paris Express website, indicates that Lines 15 and 16 are slated for partial service in 2027. Line 15 will operate between Pont de Sèvres and Noisy-Champs stations, while Line 16 will see its Saint-Denis Pleyel to Clichy section inaugurated first.
“Development and equipment work is underway, as are tests, on lines 16, 17 and 18 as well as on the southern part of line 15, between Pont de Sèvres and Noisy-Champs,” states the Grand Paris Express website, adding that “All Grand Paris Express lines are under construction.”
The entire Grand Paris Express network is projected to be completed by 2031, with the opening of the Pont-De-Sèvres to Saint-Denis-Pleyel and Saint-Denis-Pleyel to Champigny-Centre sections of Line 15.
Source: CNEWS, Grand Paris Express official website
