Finland’s longest bridge hosts first tram test run

Test operations for Helsinki’s new tram line began on Tuesday on the Kruunuvuorensilta bridge, Finland’s longest, with the trial crossing completed without incident despite foggy conditions, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The tram travelled from the Korkeasaari direction to Kruunuvuorenranta and back, covering the bridge’s 1,191-metre span. Following Tuesday’s initial test, further trials will extend along the full route between Hakaniemi in central Helsinki and Yliskylä in Laajasalo. The testing period will last several weeks, running on weekdays between 7 am and 6 pm.

During the trials, trams will reach maximum speeds of 70 km/h, though typical operating speeds will range between 30–50 km/h, slowing further at intersections and curves.

Passenger service to begin in 2027 The public will need to wait until next year to use the new line, as revenue service on the Kruunusiltojen route is scheduled to launch in early 2027. After the current round of tests concludes in March, Helsinki Regional Transport (HSL) will begin training drivers on the new track.

Two tram lines will operate on the newly completed infrastructure: one connecting Kruunuvuorenranta to Kalasatama and Pasila, and another linking Yliskylä to Jakaniemi and Helsinki Central Railway Station.

Safety measures, including traffic controllers and guide signs, will be in place at all tram crossing points during the test phase.