Rail Link to Chișinău Airport Successfully Tested

Moldovan Railways (CFM) has conducted technical tests on the Chișinău–Revaca railway section as part of preparations for launching a new rail connection between the central railway station and Chișinău International Airport.

During the test run, the train covered the 10-kilometre distance in 9 minutes, confirming the functionality and feasibility of operating the existing infrastructure. The test also enabled an initial assessment of travel time and the development of a preliminary schedule.

The trial followed repair works, including the replacement of worn sleepers and rails and the removal of speed restrictions. Experts noted the potential for further travel-time reduction through additional modernization and operational adjustments.

The airport rail link is part of Moldova’s broader program to modernize its transport system. According to Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development Vladimir Bolea, passenger stations will be fully adapted by spring 2026, with plans to increase the average speed to 50 km/h.

IDR Analytical Commentary

The new Chișinău–Airport rail connection is an important step for improving regional mobility in the Euro-Danube macro-region. The project aligns Moldova with EU standards on:

-         sustainable urban transport,

-         reducing traffic congestion,

-         developing multimodal connections between rail and air transport.

For Ukraine and the Greater Odesa region, the project carries strategic indirect benefits:

1. Strengthens logistical connectivity between Moldova and Southern Ukraine, especially for travellers using Chișinău Airport.
2. Supports harmonization of transport standards within a future integrated cross-border agglomeration zone.
3. Contributes to the development of the Danube–Black Sea intermodal corridor, aligning with EUSDR objectives (PA1B).

IDR recommends enhancing bilateral coordination on:

-         tariff and ticketing harmonization,

-         joint transit solutions,

-         multimodal “rail–airport” connectivity.