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FGC seeks drivers for Barcelona’s future R-Aeroport
The future R-Aeroport begins to take shape even before its trains run. FGC has opened a call to hire 42 drivers who will operate the new line between Barcelona and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, a connection set to change journeys to the terminals.
The application deadline ends on 15 July 2026 and the positions will be permanent contracts. The offer also includes an additional employment pool with 10 positions for future recruitment, which is key on a line that will need to operate with high frequencies and stable service.
The new R-Aeroport is scheduled to start operating during the first half of 2027. It will link Sant Andreu with the airport along a 22.7-kilometre route with nine stations, including important stops such as Passeig de Gràcia and Sants.
The aim is for the journey between central Barcelona and the airport to take just over 20 minutes. For residents, airport workers and travellers, that could mean less dependence on cars, taxis or long combinations involving transfers.
The planned frequency will be 15 minutes and the trains will be adapted for carrying luggage. The units, manufactured by Alstom in Santa Perpètua de la Mogoda, will incorporate a design intended for a use very different from that of a conventional commuter line: more suitcases, more passenger turnover and a great deal of pressure at peak times.
The call requires a Baccalaureate, vocational training or equivalent, in addition to a valid train driver's licence and diploma or a category B driving certificate. Applicants who have passed the theoretical test of the Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Ferroviaria may also apply, provided that they complete the training before the process ends.
FGC also incorporates equality criteria in the selection process: at least 40% of the people admitted to the training course will be women, provided they meet the requirements. Previous driving experience, English and a category B driving licence will also be taken into account.
The arrival of the R-Aeroport addresses one of Barcelona's major outstanding issues: properly connecting the centre with T1 and T2 without turning the journey into a race of transfers. If it meets the planned times, the new line could change the routine of thousands of people who work, fly or travel every week between the city and El Prat.