German Unity Transport Project 8

Implementation

The first 23-kilometre section of this line has been in service since June 30th, 2003: the section between the municipality of Gröbers and Leipzig. In both places, construction measures have ensured that the new line is integrated with the existing rail network without intersections. The new Leipzig airport/Halle station is outstanding both operationally and in terms of its design.

(Photos: DB AG)

Its lower level is integrated in the airport's new central terminal. The check-in area is accessed via escalators and lifts and is only a short distance away. The external platforms, which are 410 metres long, are covered by sail-like plastic membranes attached to steel arches.

Leipzig's new trade fair centre was also linked up to the high-speed rail network. The Leipzig Messe station at the trade fair centre, which is now double the size it was, is a regional transport hub for cars, trams and trains. For 13 km the new line runs parallel to the A 14 motorway, which has six lanes along this section. From 2007 major civil engineering work has been in progress between Erfurt and Gröbers.