The Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Oscar Puente, visited the ongoing construction of the Loja Variant, a segment of the high-speed line between Antequera and Granada. During his visit, he announced that an early morning high-speed train service will begin at the end of April, enabling professionals to arrive in Madrid an hour earlier. The first AVE will now leave Granada at six twelve, arriving in Madrid at nine forty-four, reducing travel time significantly.

As part of this plan, Renfe has adjusted the schedule to better meet the needs of travellers. The service will maintain intermediate stops in Loja, Antequera, and Córdoba, with a total journey time of approximately three hours and thirty-two minutes. This improvement aims to promote rail use for business trips and contribute to the decarbonisation of transport.

The Loja Variant project includes essential infrastructure aiming to enhance connectivity and reduce journey times between Granada and Almería. It integrates multiple kilometers of tunnels and viaducts in a sensitive environmental area, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem. The total project investment amounts to five hundred fifty-five million euros.

Construction work for all segments of the Loja Variant is expected to be completed or activated this year, with significant portions already underway. This initiative is part of Spain’s broader plan to improve its rail network and support sustainable transportation solutions across the country.