Currently, the depot serves ED4MKM-AERO and ED4M trains. As of next year, the double-deck trains, manufactured by Swiss Stadler, will also be maintained here. In addition, the locomotive crews earlier employed by the Moscow Railway now work at Aeroexpress.
Alexey Sorokin, Chief Executive Officer of Aeroexpress, highlighted that there are currently 26 companies operating on the suburban passenger transportation market. However, only Aeroexpress has been independently maintaining its rolling stock. “Our own modern depot allows us to promptly maintain the trains at the highest technical level, thereby significantly improving the performance. We constantly monitor all train systems, which allows us to guarantee our passengers a high level of safety and ensure maximum comfort,” stated Mr. Sorokin.
The company undertook repairs and performed major reconstruction before putting the Depot into operation. The buildings of this complex were constructed in 1871. As of early 2012, the available equipment was 95% worn. As part of the reconstruction, all engineering systems were replaced, crane equipment was repaired, and the roofing and glazing were renewed. In total, Aeroexpress has spent over RUB 1.14 billion of its own funds to complete these works.
In December 2013, Aeroexpress started to maintain its trains independently. The total depot area is 56,000 sq.m, including the tracks. The total workshop area is 12,000 sq.m. Currently, the Depot serves 24 trains (seven ED4MKM-AERO trains and 17 ED4M trains).
As of today, this standalone division employs 169 staff members. All employees are trained at the Aeroexpress Corporate Training Centre using the company’s own funds.