JR East has announced that it will suspend services on parts of the Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tohoku Line on April 19 and 20, 2025, due to construction work for the new Haneda Airport Access Line. This new line aims to connect Haneda Airport with central Tokyo and is expected to open in fiscal year 2031.
The service suspension will affect approximately 540,000 passengers, prompting JR East to encourage the use of alternative transportation options. On April 19, the outer loop of the Yamanote Line will be out of service between Ueno and Osaki, while the Keihin-Tohoku Line will be suspended between Higashi-Jujo and Shinagawa for the entire day. On April 20, the service disruption will continue on both the outer and inner loops of the Yamanote Line in the same sections, from the first train until around noon.
As a result of the suspensions, the number of trains operating in unaffected areas will be significantly reduced, with the Yamanote Line operating at about 60% of its usual capacity and the Keihin-Tohoku Line at about 40%. To mitigate the impact, JR East is increasing the frequency of trains on the parallel Ueno-Tokyo Line.
The construction is focused on the 'East Yamanote Route,' which will allow travel between Tokyo Station and Haneda Airport in approximately 18 minutes. This involves relocating tracks and expanding platforms near Tamachi Station in Minato Ward, Tokyo. The work is scheduled to begin after the last train on April 18 and will continue until noon on April 20.
JR East has acknowledged the inconvenience caused by these necessary works and has set up a dedicated inquiry hotline (050-2016-1625) for passengers seeking more information. The company is also coordinating with other railway operators to facilitate alternative transport options during the disruption.
As Tokyo continues to grow and evolve, the Haneda Airport Access Line is seen as a crucial development for enhancing connectivity between the city and its major airport. With the expected increase in passenger traffic in the coming years, this new route is anticipated to alleviate congestion and provide a more efficient travel experience.
In summary, while the service interruptions on the Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines will pose challenges for many commuters, the long-term benefits of the Haneda Airport Access Line promise to transform travel in the region. Passengers are urged to plan accordingly and consider alternative routes during this construction period.
