The Alstom-developed Automatic Train Operation system has commenced operations on the central section of the Parisian RER A between Nanterre-Préfecture, Val-de-Fontenay and Fontenay-sous-Bois in France.

A double-deck MI09 train began operations on the line last month, which has also been developed and supplied by Alstom.

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The new system will complement the driver assistance, operation and maintenance system (SACEM) installed in 1989 to improve the performance and frequency of the RER A line, which transports an estimated 1.2 million passengers daily.

Automatic operation will be gradually implemented through November next year on the entire fleet of 183 two-level trains (MI2N and MI09) currently operating on line A.

Alstom France president Jean-Baptiste Eyméoud said: “Alstom is very proud to participate in this project, which is vital for mobility in the Ile de France region.

“Alstom's French signalling teams, based in Saint-Ouen and Villeurbanne, are putting all their expertise and enthusiasm into providing an innovative, reliable solution capable of operating with an older system.

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"Alstom's French signalling teams are putting all their expertise and enthusiasm into providing an innovative, reliable solution capable of operating with an older system."

“This project will be an impressive showcase for Alstom's signalling know-how.”

Alstom secured the contract from the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP), the Syndicat des Transports d'Île-de-France (STIF) and the Ile-de-France Region in January 2015 for the development and installation of the automatic operation system along line A.

The €20m contract included various detailed studies, manufacture of the prototype and equipment for the trains, in addition to testing and project assistance services.

The solution is expected to improve the regularity of the line with an increase in commercial speed by 5km/h upon its integration with SACEM.

SACEM system was also co-developed and implemented by Alstom, and has been utilised to ensure performance and safety of Line A since 1989.

Alstom also has also deployed similar solutions for SACEM in Mexico and Hong Kong.

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