The operator described the opening as going “beyond all expectations.” Carsten Riis, CEO of Hovedstadens Letbane, commented on the public response:
“It was a great joy to see so many people embrace the Light Rail – both on the platforms and in the trains. It’s clear that from day one, the Light Rail is already seen as a natural and attractive transport choice.”
A new era for public transport in the capital
The section between Ishøj and Rødovre Nord is the first part of a planned 28-kilometre line that will eventually connect Ishøj in the southwest to Lundtofte in the north, featuring 29 stations in total. The light rail aims to deliver a fast, green and well-connected alternative to existing services, improving links between suburban municipalities and the S-train network.
Planners expect the Light Rail to shorten travel times between major workplaces, educational institutions and residential areas. It is also designed to ease pressure on the region’s road network by shifting commuters from cars to public transport.
Green, quiet and accessible travel
Hovedstadens Letbane runs on renewable electricity and the new vehicles have been engineered to be energy-efficient and low-noise. Early feedback from passengers highlighted the smoothness and comfort of the ride, and many noted the modern, accessible design of the stations and trains.
From the day of opening the service moved into regular timetabled operation with departures every 10 minutes during daytime hours. To support multimodal travel, passengers are allowed to bring bicycles, strollers and scooters on board free of charge — a feature intended to make first- and last-mile connections easier for commuters and families alike.
Festivities and community spirit
The opening day featured events along the line. Stations including Vallensbæk, Glostrup and Rødovre Nord hosted concerts, speeches and activities for children, creating a festival-like atmosphere. Families and curious residents used the opportunity to take rides and explore the new infrastructure, with a general sense of optimism and local pride.
Several passengers told reporters that the day was the culmination of years of anticipation and work, underscoring how long the project has been in planning and construction.
Next phase: Rødovre Nord to Lundtofte
While the opening of this first stage is a major milestone, the full project is still underway. Construction on the next section from Rødovre Nord to Lundtofte is already in progress. That extension will add 17 new stations and is scheduled to open in summer 2026, subject to the usual testing and commissioning procedures.
When the entire line is complete, Hovedstadens Letbane will serve over 13 municipalities and act as an important backbone in Copenhagen’s regional transport network.
