Miami-Dade Considers Non-Stop Airport-to-Port Train

Proposed rail line aims to ease traffic around world's busiest cruise terminal

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:21pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Miami-Dade County transportation officials are reviewing recommendations for a new non-stop train service connecting Miami International Airport and Port Miami, according to a recent MDTPO 2050 Master Plan study. The proposed rail line is intended to ease traffic congestion around the world's busiest cruise ship terminal, but would come with a significant price tag of $600 million to $800 million in capital expenses and $9 million to $15 million in annual operating costs.

Why it matters

As one of the world's top cruise destinations, the Port of Miami experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak cruise seasons. A direct rail link from the airport could help alleviate this by providing a more efficient transportation option for cruise passengers and workers.

The details

The Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization (MDTPO) is currently reviewing two potential alternatives for the new passenger rail line, as the port currently only has a freight train bridge. The project would require significant capital investment, with estimated costs ranging from $600 million to $800 million for construction, plus $9 million to $15 million in annual operating expenses.

  • The MDTPO 2050 Master Plan study outlining the rail line recommendations was published four months ago.

The players

Miami-Dade County Public Works

The county department reviewing the recommendations for the proposed non-stop train service.

Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization (MDTPO)

The regional transportation planning agency that published the 2050 Master Plan study detailing the rail line proposal.

Port of Miami

The world's busiest cruise ship terminal that would be served by the proposed rail line.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Miami-Dade County Public Works staff is currently reviewing the MDTPO's recommendations for the non-stop train service, but no timeline has been provided for when a decision will be made on whether to move forward with the project.

The takeaway

A direct rail link between Miami International Airport and the Port of Miami could significantly improve transportation and ease traffic congestion around the world's busiest cruise terminal, but the high estimated costs of $600 million to $800 million in capital expenses and $9 million to $15 million annually to operate may pose challenges in getting the project approved and funded.