SERVICES on the new Metrolink line to Manchester Airport will open to passengers on November 3 – well over 12 months ahead of schedule.

The final stage of the pre-launch process will start on October 20, when test trams will start to run out of service between Cornbrook and the airport every 12 minutes – which is how often trams will run on the line from launch.

Trams from the airport will run as far as Cornbrook initially, until Metrolink’s Second City Crossing opens in 2017, and unlocks extra track capacity through the city centre.

Journeys from the Airport to Cornbrook, where passengers can connect with frequent services to stops across the network, will take around 45 minutes and will effectively double the number of trams running between St Werburgh’s Road and Cornbrook.

A 300-space park and ride facility – free for Metrolink passengers to use – will also open at the Sale Water Park stop, located just off Junction 6 of the M60.

Councillor Andrew Fender, chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “Seeing our trams reach Manchester Airport more than a year ahead of schedule is a truly amazing achievement – and a game-changer for the communities set to benefit from its 15 new stops and frequent, fully accessible services.

“The arrival of the new town centre interchange next year will, of course, make it even easier still.

“For people already living along the line, it will provide new ways of getting to work, leisure, health and education opportunities.

“Because of that, it’s going to be a catalyst for great change and growth, and I am truly delighted we’ve been able to start that process so much earlier than we expected when we first started this very ambitious and challenging project.”

The 14.5km airport line will bring the size of the Metrolink network to 92.5km (57.5 miles), serving 92 stops.

Visit metrolink.co.uk for more information.