Is the Vancouver SkyTrain automatic?

SkyTrain has 79.6 km (49.5 mi) of track and uses fully automated trains on grade-separated tracks running on underground and elevated guideways, allowing SkyTrain to hold consistently high on-time reliability.



Yes, the Vancouver SkyTrain is one of the longest and oldest fully automated (driverless) rapid transit systems in the world. Since it opened in 1986, the system has used an advanced automated control system that allows trains to operate without any staff on board. The Expo and Millennium lines use Linear Induction Motor (LIM) technology, where the train "pulls" itself along a flat metal rail on the track using electromagnetic force. The Canada Line, while using more conventional electric motors, is also completely automated. This automation allows the SkyTrain to maintain incredibly high frequency—often with trains arriving every 2 to 6 minutes—and a high degree of on-time reliability. Because there are no drivers, the system can quickly scale capacity during special events or peak hours. While "SkyTrain Attendants" roam the system for safety and fare checks, the actual navigation, braking, and station stops are handled entirely by a centralized computer system.

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One of the most recognizable parts of Vancouver, seen all over the city and metro area, is the SkyTrain. Built-in the mid-80s and unveiled for Expo 86, originally, it was the world's longest automated (that is, driverless) rail transit system for decades, and it's still one of the longest.

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All train movements are controlled from the Operations and Maintenance Centre at Burnaby. The unmanned trains operate under an automatic, computerized train-control SELTRAC system supplied by SEL. This system was originally developed in Germany for both rapid-transit and trunk railway systems.

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Propulsion uses two Linear Induction Motors—straight line versions of the conventional AC rotary electric motor. The motors react with an aluminium-capped steel rail on the guideway to provide motive power. SkyTrain was the first major application of LIM technology to mass transit systems.

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The SkyTrain power supply and distribution system is made up of electric propulsion power substations, which is fed through BC Hydro's utility service.

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There are permanent magnets in both the rail and the arm that surrounds the train, causing the arm and the train to repel each other and suspend the train.

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The SkyTrains are automated and driverless. In theory, they are the perfect fit for a 24/7 service transit system. But, some parts of its infrastructure are 40 years old and require daily maintenance, most of which is done at night.

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Using a Compass Card, Compass Ticket, contactless payment cards, or mobile wallet. When you travel on SkyTrain, SeaBus, or West Coast Express, tap your card, ticket, or mobile wallet to the card reader at the fare gates (or validator for West Coast Express) as you enter and exit a station to validate your fare.

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SkyTrain uses the world's third-longest cable-supported transit-only bridge, known as SkyBridge, to cross the Fraser River. With the opening of the Evergreen Extension on December 2, 2016, SkyTrain became the longest rapid transit system in Canada and the longest fully automated driverless system in the world.

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Public transit options are available for stadium guests as well. For those arriving by bus, the Downtown Vancouver #15 and #17 lines provide service within minutes of the entrance at BC Place. The Vancouver Skytrain also stops at the Stadium-Chinatown station, about a five-minute walk from the venue.

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Expo Line connects Downtown Vancouver with the cities of Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey. Millennium Line takes you from East Vancouver through to Burnaby and into Port Moody and Coquitlam. Canada Line travels between Downtown Vancouver, the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and Richmond.

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Maglev trains require very straight and level tracks to maintain high speeds. This necessitates extensive viaducts and tunneling, making construction costly.

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