A major operational upgrade for Athens’ tram network takes effect on Monday, September 7, 2026—bringing more frequent departures, reduced waiting times, and enhanced capacity along key corridors. The new integrated operational plan, developed by STASY (Athens Urban Transport Organization), focuses on the coastal axis and central Athens to better serve the network’s approximately 55,000 daily passengers.
Targeted Improvements on Key Lines
The plan prioritizes two core lines—the Line 6 (Syntagma–Pikrodafni) and Line 7 (Asklipieio Voulas–SEF)—in direct response to passenger demand for higher-frequency service. During morning and afternoon peak hours, tram frequencies will increase significantly, cutting average headways across both lines.
Line 6: Syntagma to Pikrodafni
Two additional trams will run during the morning peak and one extra in the afternoon. As a result, the average time between departures drops from 9 minutes today to 7 minutes and 30 seconds in the morning and 8 minutes and 10 seconds in the afternoon. Daily trips on this line rise from 232 to 244.
Line 7: Asklipieio Voulas to SEF
Two extra trams will be deployed during peak hours on this segment, reducing average headways from 12 minutes to 9 minutes and 50 seconds. Total daily services increase from 189 to 205.
Expanded Fleet and Operational Readiness
To support the expanded schedule, the number of trams in simultaneous operation during the morning peak rises from 23 to 27. The updated operational plan also includes two reserve trams and one vehicle undergoing preventive maintenance—ensuring reliability and minimizing service disruptions. STASY emphasizes proactive fleet management and consistent vehicle upkeep as central to maintaining smooth operations.
Investment in People and Sustainability
Implementing this expanded service is accompanied by a meaningful investment in human resources. New drivers are already being onboarded to meet staffing needs created by the increased frequency—a move expected to further strengthen employment in the public transport sector. Officials from both the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport and STASY describe the initiative as a decisive step toward sustainable urban mobility in Athens.
“This tram service enhancement is an undeniable success—and a pivotal milestone for sustainable urban mobility in the capital,” they state, adding that “it marks a new era: delivering faster, more frequent, and more reliable journeys for thousands of passengers every day.” With completed infrastructure support works, strengthened personnel, and optimized fleet management, Athens’ tram is consolidating its role as a modern, dependable backbone of the city’s public transport system.