Metroselskabet has selected KBH Metro Partner as the new operator of the Copenhagen Metro, which will run and maintain lines M1 to M4 from September 2027.
DR reports that Metroselskabet announced the decision on Friday, August 28, after an extensive tender process. KBH Metro Partner will take over daily operation and maintenance of the four metro lines in the Danish capital.
The new contract runs for 12 years, until 2039, with an option to extend it by a further three years. According to Metroselskabet, the agreement has a total value of 17 billion kroner.
Søren Boysen, director of operations and maintenance at Metroselskabet, described the assignment as large, complex and attractive. As stated in the company’s press release, the task drew considerable international interest, and the tender field was strong.
Berlingske reports that Metroselskabet expects to sign the contract in September 2026. The signing follows the standstill period required by law after an award decision in a public tender.
According to Metroselskabet and the trade outlet Licitationen, KBH Metro Partner ApS is backed by several support companies. These include RATP Development SA, Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens, SBS Transit Rail Pte. Ltd, ComfortDelGro Irish Citylink Limited and Westbus Coach Services Limited.
Transition phase begins now
The Copenhagen Metro is currently operated by Metro Service, which remains in charge until the new contract starts. Metroselskabet, Metro Service and KBH Metro Partner will now enter a transition and mobilization phase running up to September 2027.
Per Boysen, staff skills and experience are decisive for the quality of metro operations. He said Metroselskabet wants to keep as many of Metro Service’s employees as possible with the new operator.
Metroselskabet states that 135 million journeys were made on the Copenhagen Metro in 2025. The metro operates alongside buses, S-trains and cycling in Copenhagen as part of the capital’s transport network.
The company is owned by the Danish state, the City of Copenhagen and the Municipality of Frederiksberg. It holds overall responsibility for metro operations, but is required by law to put the operating task out to tender to a private company.
Boysen said the most important task remains securing safe, stable and efficient metro service for passengers every day. The M1 to M4 lines will continue running under Metro Service until the handover next year.
