Vantaa, Finland: Groundbreaking Vantaa Tramway Construction Begins Now, Connecting Helsinki to Helsinki Airport by 2029 for Effortless Travel

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Building on the much-debated Vantaa tramway officially began on Monday, marking an important milestone towards achieving city initiatives aimed at developing public transport infrastructure. The tram track, slated for 2029 completion, will provide citizens and visitors alike direct and easy connectivity from Mellunmäki in Helsinki all the way to Helsinki Airport in Vantaa, greatly improving accessibility and commuting convenience.

The Vantaa tramway is part of a broader effort to modernize Finland’s urban transport system, providing a light rail solution that will serve the growing transportation needs of the Helsinki metropolitan area. The new line, stretching 19 kilometers, will link Mellunmäki metro station in Helsinki with the Helsinki Airport in Vantaa, passing through Tikkurila, one of the key transport hubs in the region.

The Beginning of Construction: Tikkurila Station Preparatory Work

Preparatory construction work began at Tikkurila station, which will serve as one of the critical transfer points for passengers on the Vantaa tramway. As part of the early-phase preparations, temporary bridges are being constructed to cover the tracks and platforms at Tikkurila station. This step is crucial to prevent disruption to the ongoing services of long-distance and commuter trains that use the station daily.

According to Pekka Kivelä, Project Director at Destia, the company responsible for building the western section of the Vantaa Light Rail, “Once the temporary bridges are in place, we can proceed with the construction of the tram tunnel, which is expected to begin later in the autumn.” The tunnel construction at Tikkurila station is anticipated to take around three years to complete, marking a significant phase of the overall tramway project.

Vantaa Tramway Timeline and Long-Term Impact

The completion of the Vantaa tramway by 2029 is expected to ease congestion, reduce travel times, and provide a cleaner, more sustainable mode of transport for commuters. The tram line will create direct access to Helsinki Airport, one of the busiest airports in Europe, which will help bolster the city’s role as a key international travel hub.

Once operational, the tramway is expected to significantly reduce traffic on the roads, alleviate strain on other public transport systems, and improve overall commuter experiences. The line will provide a much-needed alternative to car travel, aligning with Finland’s commitment to sustainable transport and reducing carbon emissions.

Tikkurila Station Changes and Noise Concerns for Locals

During the construction phase, Tikkurila station will undergo several changes to accommodate the new tram line. One of the most significant changes will be the closure of platforms 5 and 6, which will remain closed for about two weeks as part of the initial phase of construction. These disruptions may affect the commuter train schedules, and Helsinki Regional Transport (HSL) has promised to keep the public updated on any timetable changes.

As construction work progresses, residents in the Tikkurila area can expect noise disruptions, particularly in the first six months. Pekka Kivelä explained, “Due to the ongoing work, including tasks like pile drilling, we will be conducting night shifts. We aim to build acoustic barriers to minimize noise, but the construction will be visible in the streetscape, and there will be noise at times.”

The tram tunnel at Tikkurila will be constructed using an open excavation method due to the area’s clay soil conditions. The concrete walls and roof structure inside the excavation will eventually be covered underground, preserving the aesthetic of the area once completed. The construction of the tunnel and surrounding infrastructure is a crucial part of the tramway project, designed to seamlessly integrate the tram line into Vantaa’s urban landscape.

Benefits of the Vantaa Tramway for Local Commuters

The Vantaa tramway is expected to provide multiple benefits to both local commuters and tourists. With easy access to Helsinki Airport and popular destinations in Helsinki and Vantaa, the tram line will make it easier for travelers to navigate the region.

Tourists flying in or out of Helsinki Airport will particularly benefit from the direct tram connection, providing them with an eco-friendly and reliable transport option. The tramway is expected to complement existing public transport systems, creating a well-connected transport network that can support growing populations and urban development in the area.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The construction of the Vantaa tramway is not just about improving the transportation system; it also has significant environmental and economic impacts. By reducing car traffic and promoting public transport use, the tram line will contribute to Finland’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the project will create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and enhance the value of the surrounding areas.

In terms of economic benefits, the tramway will attract further investment to Vantaa and Helsinki, making these regions even more attractive for business and residential development. The improvements to transport infrastructure will create a more dynamic and interconnected region, supporting both local and national economic growth.

Conclusion: Looking to the Future of Vantaa and Helsinki’s Public Transport

Construction is already underway and will be completed by 2029, and the Vantaa tram plan will transform local transportation and boost connectivity for the broader region of metropolitan Helsinki. Although there will be traffic disruption and noise during construction times, the benefits of the plan over the longer term will be significant and be an important breakthrough for both Vantaa and its broader region of Helsinki.

(Sources: City of Vantaa, Ministry of Transport and Communications Finland, Destia)