Some quotes from an April 2015 article in O'Biz Journal and a few observations:
Biz Journal
"Though environmental and construction permits would first have to be secured, the company still expects to begin limited operations in 2016 with full operations beginning in 2017 — contingent on the completion of the airport’s
$215 million Intermodal Transportation Facility, which would house a Maglev platform."
So as of yet, no permits. Doubtful if construction is under way. And I just want to make sure everyone is clear that the airport station will be at the "new" Southern terminal which only exists on paper and is being fought tooth and nail by the airlines that serve MCO.
"The goal is to begin circulator operations in September 2016, after six months of testing."
"Van Buren Township, Mich.-based
Ricardo Plc. is expected to complete the first two Maglev cars by next summer."
So 'splain this to me - How do you begin testing in March 2016 when the first cars won't be delivered until June or July?
"Full train capacity is 200 passengers, 80 in front and 120 in the back. About 3.1 million passengers are expected in the first year."
What does that even mean? Nobody's going to sit in the middle?
"The train will be able to travel an estimated 500-1,000 trips per hour."
This is a marvel for sure. An attraction in and of itself - a train every 3 to 6 seconds.
And finally:
"Train tickets on Maglev could cost about $16 one way from the airport to the convention center, and $6 one way for the circulator."
Family of 4, airport round trip - $128. Taxi anyone? Circulator round trip - $48. IRide Trolley, all day pass is $5 per person.
They must have some seriously fine herb at American Maglev.
