View source for Copenhagen Metro

{{Short description|Rapid transit railway in Copenhagen, Denmark}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2018}}
{{Rapid transit OSM map|display=title|text=Network map}}
{{Infobox public transit
| box_width = auto
| name = Copenhagen Metro
| image = Copenhagen Metro Logo.svg
| imagesize = 100
| alt = 
| caption = 
| image2 = 
| imagesize2 = 
| alt2 = 
| caption2 = 
| native_name = {{lang|da|Københavns Metro}}
| owner = Metroselskabet I/S
| area served = 
| locale = [[Copenhagen]], Denmark
| transit_type = [[Medium-capacity rail system|Light rapid transit]]
| lines = 4 (1 planned)
| line_number = M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 (planned)
| start = 
| end = 
| stations = 44
| ridership = 360,000 (daily)
| annual_ridership = 126 million (2024)<ref name='Stats' />
| chief_executive = Carsten Riis, CEO
| website = [http://intl.m.dk/ M.dk]
| began_operation = {{Start date and age|2002|10|19}}
| operator = [[Inmetro]]
| character = 
| vehicles = {{plainlist|
* 34 [[Hitachi Rail Italy Driverless Metro|AnsaldoBreda<br /> Driverless Metro]] (M1+M2)
* 30 Hitachi Rail Italy<br /> Driverless Metro (M3+M4)
}}<ref name=jyllands-posten2015>[https://jyllands-posten.dk/indland/trafik/ECE7404079/Cityringens-nye-metrotog-k%C3%B8rer-hurtigere-og-t%C3%A6ttere/ Cityringens nye metrotog kører hurtigere og tættere] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028021130/https://jyllands-posten.dk/indland/trafik/ECE7404079/Cityringens-nye-metrotog-k%C3%B8rer-hurtigere-og-t%C3%A6ttere/|date=28 October 2020}}, Jyllands-Posten, 31 January 2015</ref>
| train_length = 3 cars
| headway = 2–4 minutes
| system_length = {{convert|43.3|km|abbr=on}}<ref name="track schematic"/>
| track_gauge = {{Track gauge|sg|allk=on}}
| el = {{750 V DC|conductor=y}}
| average_speed = {{convert|40|km/h|abbr=on}}
| top_speed = {{plainlist|
* M1 and M2: {{convert|80|km/h|abbr=on}}
* M3 and M4: {{convert|90|km/h|abbr=on}}
}}<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-09-29|title=13 ting du måske ikke vidste om den nye metrolinje - TV 2|url=https://nyheder.tv2.dk/samfund/2019-09-29-13-ting-du-maaske-ikke-vidste-om-den-nye-metrolinje|access-date=2021-11-09|website=nyheder.tv2.dk|language=da-DK|archive-date=9 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211109024720/https://nyheder.tv2.dk/samfund/2019-09-29-13-ting-du-maaske-ikke-vidste-om-den-nye-metrolinje|url-status=live}}</ref>
| map = {{Copenhagen Metro route diagram}}
| map_state = collapsed
}}

The '''Copenhagen Metro''' ({{langx|da|Københavns Metro}} {{IPA|da|kʰøpm̩ˈhɑwˀns ˈme̝ːtsʰʁo|}}) is a [[Medium-capacity rail system|light rapid transit]] system in [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, serving the municipalities of [[Copenhagen Municipality|Copenhagen]], [[Frederiksberg]], and [[Tårnby]].

First opened in October 2002,<ref name="track schematic">{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/~/media/Metro/PDF/PDF%202008/sporplan.ashx|title=Sporplan|website=M.dk|language=da, en|trans-title=Track plan|format=PDF|date=22 November 2006|access-date=9 April 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022035300/http://www.m.dk/~/media/Metro/PDF/PDF%202008/sporplan.ashx|archive-date=22 October 2013}}</ref> the [[list of driverless trains|driverless]] light metro supplements the larger [[S-train (Copenhagen)|S-train]] rapid transit system, and is integrated with local [[DSB (railway company)|DSB]] and regional ([[Øresundståg]]) trains and municipal [[Movia (transit agency)|Movia]] buses. The metro operates 4 lines and operates 44&nbsp;[[List of Copenhagen Metro stations|stations]], 30 of which are underground. The M1 and M2 lines serve western and eastern Amager (including [[Copenhagen Airport]]) respectively, sharing a common line between the city centre and [[Vanløse railway station|Vanløse]].<ref name="track schematic" /> The M3 is a wholly underground circular line connecting [[Copenhagen Central Station]] with [[Vesterbro, Copenhagen|Vesterbro]], [[Frederiksberg]], [[Nørrebro]], [[Østerbro]] and [[Indre By]]. The most recent line, M4, supplements the M3 line and connects it to [[Nordhavn railway station|Nordhavn]] and [[Sydhavn railway station|Sydhavn]], as well as [[Valby]] via [[Copenhagen South railway station|Copenhagen South]]. The fifth line, M5, is currently in the planning stages and will serve [[Refshaleøen, Copenhagen|Refshaleøen]] as well as the under-construction Lynetteholmen neighbourhood, with an expected opening date in 2035. 

In 2023, the metro carried 120&nbsp;million passengers.<ref name="Stats">{{cite web|title=Metroen i tal|trans-title=Metro figures|url=http://m.dk/#!/om+metroen/facts+om+metroen/statistik/passagertal|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221118163020/https://m.dk/#!/om+metroen/facts+om+metroen/statistik/passagertal|archive-date=18 November 2022|access-date=15 November 2022|publisher=Metroselskabet|language=da}}</ref> Along with the [[New York City Subway]] and [[Chicago "L"]], the Copenhagen Metro is one of only three rapid transit systems in the world to operate 24/7 throughout their city limits.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Ben |date=2024-03-01 |title=18 of the world’s best metro systems |url=https://edition.cnn.com/travel/worlds-best-subways-metros |access-date=2025-05-22 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref>

==Overview==
[[File:Copenhagen Metro 2024.svg|thumb|Copenhagen Metro network, as of June 2024]]
The system is owned by ''Metroselskabet'' (The Metro Company), which is owned by the municipalities of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg, and the [[Danish Ministry of Transport|Ministry of Transport]]. The M1 and M2 use 34 trains of the [[Hitachi Rail Italy Driverless Metro]] class and stationed at the Control and Maintenance Center at [[Vestamager]]. The trains are {{convert|2.65|m|abbr=on}} wide and three cars long; their {{convert|630|kW|adj=on|abbr=on}} power output is supplied by a 750-volt [[third rail]]. The metro trains were originally planned to be four cars long, but trains were reduced to three cars per set as a savings measure.<ref name="Berlingske2006">{{cite news|date=2 March 2006|title=Metro-tog presset af myldretid|trans-title=Metro trains pressed during rush hours|url=http://www.business.dk/diverse/metro-tog-presset-af-myldretid|language=da|newspaper=[[Berlingske Tidende]]|access-date=14 November 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203070412/http://www.business.dk/diverse/metro-tog-presset-af-myldretid|archive-date=3 December 2013 }}</ref> Platforms are – although shorter than originally planned – built to accommodate trains with four cars, and the automatic doors can be modified accordingly should the need arise.<ref name="Berlingske2006"/>

Operation of the system is subcontracted to a private company. For the history of service, this has been ''Metro Service A/S''. Trains run continually, twenty-four hours a day, with the [[headway]] varying from two to four minutes in daytime, with longer intervals (up to twenty minutes) during the night.{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}

[[File:Danishmetrotrain.jpg|thumb|A Metro train on approach to [[Flintholm Station]]|left]]
Planning of the Metro started in 1992 as part of the redevelopment plans for [[Ørestad]] with construction starting in 1996, and stage 1, from [[Nørreport Station|Nørreport]] to [[Vestamager Station|Vestamager]] and [[Lergravsparken Station|Lergravsparken]], opened in 2002. Stage 2, from Nørreport to [[Vanløse Station|Vanløse]], opened in 2003, followed by stage 3, from Lergravsparken to [[Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup Station|Lufthavnen]], in 2007.{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}

The [[City Circle Line]] (Danish: ''Cityringen)'' is an entirely underground {{Cvt|15.5|km}} loop through central Copenhagen and Frederiksberg with 17 stops. It does not share any track with the M1 and M2 lines, but intersect them at [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]] and [[Frederiksberg Station|Frederiksberg]] stations. Before the ''Cityringen'' opened, the Metro expected that it would cause its ridership should almost double from its 2016 levels to 116 million annual passengers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/om+cityringen/passagertal|title=Københavns Metro|last=Metroselskabet|website=M.dk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814131152/http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/om+cityringen/passagertal|archive-date=14 August 2016}}</ref>

A fourth line, M4, operates as an extension of the M3 to [[Nordhavnen|Nordhavn]] and [[Sydhavn station|Sydhavn]]. The first stationed opened in [[Nordhavn railway station|Nordhavn]] in March 2020,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|title=Københavns Metro|last=Metroselskabet|website=M.dk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814131152/http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|archive-date=14 August 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.tv2lorry.dk/koebenhavn/nu-aabner-metro-til-nordhavn-her-er-alt-du-skal-vide-om-m4|title=Nu er metro til Nordhavn åben - her er alt, du skal vide om M4|language=da|access-date=30 March 2020|date=28 March 2020|publisher=TV2Lorry|website=tv2lorry.dk|archive-date=28 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328142838/https://www.tv2lorry.dk/koebenhavn/nu-aabner-metro-til-nordhavn-her-er-alt-du-skal-vide-om-m4|url-status=live}}</ref> and the five-stop, {{Cvt|4.5|km}}, extension to Sydhavn opened in 2024.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=The opening of Cityringen to be celebrated with great public celebration and free transport |url=https://intl.m.dk/news/the-opening-of-cityringen-to-be-celebrated-with-great-public-celebration-and-free-transport/ |website=intl.m.dk |access-date=11 July 2024 |archive-date=24 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221124023054/https://intl.m.dk/news/the-opening-of-cityringen-to-be-celebrated-with-great-public-celebration-and-free-transport/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The M4 terminates at [[Copenhagen South Station]] and serves as another metro connection to the [[S-train]] network, regional trains, and long-distance trains on the current lines and the high speed Copenhagen-Ringsted railway.<ref name="sydhavn">{{cite web|url=http://ing.dk/artikel/sydhavnsmetroen-er-vedtaget-173968|title=Sydhavnsmetroen er vedtaget|work=Ingeniøren|date=6 February 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304110555/http://ing.dk/artikel/sydhavnsmetroen-er-vedtaget-173968|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> The M4 is expected by Metroselskabet to triple the ridership from its current level of 200,000 per weekday to 600,000 per weekday by 2030.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.dk/#!/om+metroen/nyheder+og+presse/nyhedsartikler/2018/topnyhed|title=44 metro stations and 600,000 passengers a day|publisher=M.dk|access-date=12 March 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990125100948/http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/nyheder+og+presse/nyhedsartikler/2018/topnyhed|archive-date=25 January 1999}}</ref>

==History==

===Background===
[[File:Copenhagen Metro nedgang.jpg|left|thumb|Crossover from elevated railway to tunnel near Islands Brygge]]
[[File:DR Byen.jpg|left|thumb|Copenhagen Metro train, with [[DR Byen]] in the background]]

The planning of the metro was spurred by the development of the [[Ørestad]] area of Copenhagen. The principle of building a rail transit was passed by the [[Folketing|Parliament of Denmark]] on 24 June 1992, with the ''Ørestad Act''.<ref name=history>{{cite web|title=Copenhagen Metro – the history|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|url=http://intl.m.dk/About+the+Metro/History.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100529205709/http://intl.m.dk/About+the+Metro/History.aspx|archive-date=29 May 2010 }}</ref> The responsibility for developing the area, as well as building and operating the metro, was given to the [[Ørestad Development Corporation]], a joint venture between Copenhagen Municipality (45%) and the [[Ministry of Finance of Denmark|Ministry of Finance]] (55%). Initially, three modes were considered: a tramway, a light rail and a rapid transit. In October 1994, the Development Corporation chose a light rapid transit.<ref name=undervejs>{{cite journal|title=Metro undervejs|trans-title=Metro under way|last=Jensen|first=Tommy O.|year=2002|issue=5|journal=Jernbanen|pages=30–31|language=da|url=http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad5-2002bag-om-metroen-ny4.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719124850/http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad5-2002bag-om-metroen-ny4.pdf|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref>

The tram solution would have been a street tram, without any major infrastructure investments in the city centre, such as a dedicated right-of-way. Through Ørestad it would have had level crossings, except for a grade-separated crossing with the [[European route E20|European Route E20]] and the [[Øresund Railway|Øresund Line]]. It would have had a driver and have operated at about a 150-second interval—twice the cycle time of the city's traffic lights. Power would have been provided with [[overhead wire]]s. Stops were to be located about every {{convert|500|m|ftin|abbr=on|0}} at street level. The articulated trams would have been about {{convert|35|m|ftin|abbr=on}} long and have a capacity for 230 passengers.<ref name=minimetro>{{cite web|title=How Copenhagen Chose an Automatic Minimetro System|last=Søndergaard|first=Morten|publisher=Øresund Development Corporation|url=http://www.m.dk/minimetro.pdf|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061009091035/http://www.m.dk/minimetro.pdf|archive-date = 9 October 2006}}</ref>

The light rail model would have used the same approach as the tram in Ørestad, but would instead have run through a tunnel in the city centre. The tunnel sections would be shorter, but the diameter larger because it would have to accommodate overhead wires. The system would have the same frequency as the tram, but use double trams and would therefore require larger stations. The metro solution was chosen because it combined the highest average speeds, the highest passenger capacity, the lowest visual and noise impact, and the lowest number of accidents. Despite requiring the highest investment, it had the highest [[net present value]].<ref name=minimetro />

The decision to build stage 2, from Nørreport to Vanløse, and stage 3, to the airport, was taken by Parliament on 21 December 1994.<ref name=history /> Stage 2 involved the establishment of the company Frederiksbergbaneselskabet I/S in February 1995, owned 70% by the Ørestad Development Corporation and 30% by Frederiksberg Municipality. The third stage would be built by Østamagerbaneselskabet I/S, established in September 1995 and owned 55% by the Ørestad Development Corporation and 45% by [[Copenhagen County]]. In October 1996, a contract was signed with the Copenhagen Metro Construction Group (COMET) for building the lines (Civil Works), and with [[Ansaldo STS]] for delivery of technological systems and trains, and to operate the system the first five years.<ref name=undervejs /> COMET was a single-purpose consortium composed of [[Astaldi]], [[Vinci SA|Bachy]], [[Eiffage|SAE]], [[Strabag|Ilbau]], [[Nordic Construction Company|NCC Rasmussen & Schiøtz Anlæg]] and [[Carillion|Tarmac Construction]].<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-58673331.html|title=Copenhagen's First Metro Line Takes Shape|journal=[[International Railway Journal]]|date=1 September 1999|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071205210140/http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-58673331.html|archive-date=5 December 2007|access-date=25 November 2007}}</ref>

===Construction of lines M1 and M2===
[[File:Copenhagen Metro escalators.jpg|thumb|Escalators at [[Amagerbro Station]]]]

Construction started in November 1996, with the moving of underground pipes and wires around the station areas. In August 1997, work started at the depot, and in September, COMET started the first mainline work. In October and November, the two [[tunnel boring machine]]s (TBM), christened Liva and Betty, were delivered. They started boring each barrel of the tunnel from [[Islands Brygge Station|Islands Brygge]] in February 1998. The same month, the [[Public Transport Authority (Denmark)|Public Transport Authority]] gave the necessary permits to operate a driverless metro. The section between [[Fasanvej Station|Fasanvej]] and [[Frederiksberg Station|Frederiksberg]] is a former S-train line, and was last operated as such on 20 June 1998.<ref name=undervejs />

The first section of tunnel was completed in September 1998, and the TBMs moved to Havnegade. By December 1998, work had started on the initial nine stations. Plans for M2 were presented to the public in April 1999, with a debate emerging if the proposed elevated solution was the best. In May, the first trains were delivered, and trial runs began at the depot. In December, the tunnels were completed to Strandlodsvej, and the TBMs were moved to Havnegade, where they started to grind towards Frederiksberg. From 1 January 2000, the S-train service from [[Fasanvej Station|Solbjerg]] to Vanløse was terminated, and work commenced to rebuild the section to metro. The last section of tunnel was completed in February 2001.<ref name=undervejs />

In March 2001, Copenhagen County Council decided to start construction of stage 3. On 6 November 2001, the first train operated through a tunnel section. On 28 November, laying of tracks along stage 1, and stage 2A from Nørreport to Frederiksberg, was completed. An agreement about financing stage 3 was reached on 12 April. By 22 May, the 18 delivered trains had test-run {{convert|100000|km|abbr=in|-3}}.<ref name=undervejs /> The section from Nørreport to Lergravsparken and Vestamager was opened on 19 October 2002. Initially, the system had a 12-minute [[headway]] on each of the two services. From 3 December this was reduced to 9 minutes, and from 19 December to 6 minutes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/243|title=To måneder med metro|last=de Laine|trans-title=Two months with metro|first=Thomas|date=23 December 2002|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130258/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/243|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> Operation of the system was subcontracted to Ansaldo, who again subcontracted it to Metro Service, a subsidiary of [[Serco]]. The contract had a duration of five years, with an option for extension for another three.<ref name=3yr>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/394|title=Ansaldo og Metro Service fik forlænget kontrakten|trans-title=Contract renewed with Ansaldo and Metro Service|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=12 July 2006|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130303/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/394|archive-date=19 July 2011}}</ref>

===Opening of lines M1 and M2===
[[File:Ørestad--metro.jpg|thumb|left|Elevated station on Amager – Ørestad Station]]

Trial runs on stage 2A began on 24 February 2003 and opened on 29 May. All changes to bus and train schedules in Copenhagen took place on 25 May, but to allow [[Margrethe II of Denmark|Queen Margrethe II]] to open the line, the opening needed to be adapted to her calendar. This caused four days without a bus service along the line.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/254|title=Metro til Frederiksberg åbner 29. maj|trans-title=Metro to Frederiksberg opens on 29 May|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=6 April 2003|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130307/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/254|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> Stage 2B, from Frederiksberg to Vanløse, opened on 12 October.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/269|title=Metro til Vanløse allerede 12. oktober|trans-title=Metro to Vanløse already on 12 October|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=21 August 2003|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130314/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/269|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref>

[[Forum Station]] was nominated for the [[European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture]] in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.miesbcn.com/do.php?idioma=en&ACCION=VER_OBRA&IDOBRA=364&LETRA=&ciudad=&pais=&tipologia=0&clasificacion=0&edicion=2003-2004&autor=|title=Metro Copenhagen|publisher=[[European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture]]|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726004038/http://www.miesbcn.com/do.php?idioma=en&ACCION=VER_OBRA&IDOBRA=364&LETRA=&ciudad=&pais=&tipologia=0&clasificacion=0&edicion=2003-2004&autor=|archive-date=26 July 2011 }}</ref> On 2 December 2005, the final agreement to build the City Circle Line was made between the local and national governments. The price was estimated at 11.5 to 18.3&nbsp;billion [[Danish krone]] (DKK), of which DKK&nbsp;5.4&nbsp;billion will be financed though ticket sales, and the remaining from the state and municipalities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/362|title=Aftale om metrocityring underskrevet|trans-title=Contract for the City Circle Line signed|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=2 December 2005|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130319/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/362|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> In 2006, it was announced that the contract with Ansaldo to operate the metro had been prolonged another three years.<ref name=3yr /> However, the subcontract between Ansaldo and Serco Group was not extended, and the contract was instead given to [[Azienda Trasporti Milanesi]] in joint venture with Ansaldo; they took over operations from October 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/426|title=Metrocityringen forberedes for Brønshøj-gren|trans-title=The City Circle Line to be prepared for Brønshøj branch|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=16 January 2007|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130325/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/426|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The Ørestad Development Corporation was discontinued in 2007, and the ownership of the metro was transferred to Metroselskabet I/S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/om+metroen.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Metroens organisering|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100508163203/http://www.m.dk/Om+Metroen.aspx|archive-date=8 May 2010}}</ref>

In January 2007, the city council decided that a branch was to be built during construction at Nørrebro, to allow a future branch line from the City Circle Line towards [[Brønshøj]]. The first part of this line was intended to be constructed at the same time as the City Circle Line, to avoid a multitude-higher construction cost and long interruptions of operations later. This did not involve a final decision, only an option for future construction.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/424|title=Metroen skifter operatør|trans-title=The metro changes operator|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=13 January 2007|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130330/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/424|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The Herlev/Brønshøj line was ultimately dropped as the City of Copenhagen withdrew its share of the cost of the Nørrebro branch chamber in its 2009 budget, and the state refused to continue the project. Any branch to the Herlev / Brønshøj region would now require a shutdown of the City Circle Line for an extended period of time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.b.dk/danmark/spinkel-chance-metro-til-herlev|title=Spinkel chance for Metro til Herlev|date=23 September 2009|work=www.b.dk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924100427/http://www.b.dk/danmark/spinkel-chance-metro-til-herlev|archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.letbaner.dk/nyheder/00311/|title=Letbaner.DK – Metroforgrening droppet|work=letbaner.dk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630151915/http://www.letbaner.dk/nyheder/00311/|archive-date=30 June 2013}}</ref>

In March 2007, a proposal to establish a station at [[Valby]], where the [[Carlsberg Group]] is planning an urban redevelopment, was scrapped. The proposal would have increased construction costs by DKK&nbsp;900&nbsp;million and was deemed not economical. The increased cost was, in part, due to an extra TBM being needed to complete the project on time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/437|title=Carlsberg får ingen metrostation|trans-title=Carlsberg will not receive metro station|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=28 March 2007|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130355/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/437|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The City Circle Line was passed by parliament on 1 June 2007, with only the [[Red-Green Alliance (Denmark)|Red–Green Alliance]] voting in disfavor.<ref name=tdl437>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/437|title=Metrocityringen vedtaget i Folketinget|trans-title=City Circle Line passed by parliament|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=1 June 2007|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130355/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/437|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref>

The {{convert|4.5|km|abbr=in|adj=on}} stage 3 opened on 28 September 2007, from Lergravsparken to the airport. It followed, for the most part, the route of the former [[Amagerbanen|Amager Line]] of the [[Danish State Railways]]. With this stage complete, the 34 trains were delivered for use by the M1 and M2. However, the line caused a heated debate, with several locals organized themselves into the Amager Metro Group. The group argued that the line should have been built underground, citing concerns that it would create noise pollution and a physical barrier in Amager.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/482|title=Metro til Lufthavnen indviet|trans-title=Metro to the airport opened|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=28 September 2007|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130401/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/482|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> In April 2008, the Copenhagen Metro won the award at MetroRail 2008 for the world's best metro. The jury noted the system's high regularity, safety and passenger satisfaction, as well as the efficient transport to the airport.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/524|title=København har verdens bedste metro|trans-title=Copenhagen has the world's best metro|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=2 April 2008|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091213040740/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/524|archive-date=13 December 2009 }}</ref> During 2008, the metro experienced a 16% passenger growth to 44&nbsp;million passengers per year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/561|title=Store stigninger i metroens passagertal|trans-title=Large increase in the metro's ridership|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=15 September 2008|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114110952/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/561|archive-date=14 January 2009}}</ref>

Several parties agreed in September 2008 not to fund a northwest expansion of the metro.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/564|title=Ingen metro til nordvestkvarteret|trans-title=No metro to the North-West Quarters|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=19 September 2008|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114105616/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/564|archive-date=14 January 2009 }}</ref>

Initially, the system operated trains from 01:00 to 05:00 only on Thursdays to Saturdays, but, starting on 19 March 2009, night service was extended to the rest of the week. This caused a logistical challenge, because Metro Service used the nights for maintenance. The routes were therefore set up in such a way that the system could be operated on only a single track, leaving the other free for work.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/599|title=Metroen går i døgndrift|trans-title=The metro operates around the clock|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=12 March 2009|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714144224/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/599|archive-date=14 July 2014}}</ref> In May 2009, six companies were pre-qualified to bid for the [[public service obligation]] to operate the metro. These were [[Serco-Abellio|Serco-NedRailways]], [[Ansaldo STS]], [[Arriva]], [[Hamburg S-Bahn|S-Bahn Hamburg]], [[Keolis]] and DSB Metro—a joint venture between [[DSB (railway company)|DSB]] and [[Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens|RATP]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/630|title=Tilbud afleveret ved metroudbud|trans-title=Bids for the metro tender|last=de Laine|first=Thomas|date=3 September 2009|work=Myldretid|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719130446/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/630|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The process was delayed because of a procedural error by Metroselskabet, who failed to pre-qualify DSB Metro.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cphpost.dk/news/local/87-local/45120-blunder-in-metro-operator-bid.html|title=Blunder in Metro operator bid|date=19 March 2009|work=[[The Copenhagen Post]]|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101213181017/http://cphpost.dk/news/local/87-local/45120-blunder-in-metro-operator-bid.html|archive-date=13 December 2010}}</ref>

===Construction of lines M3, City Circle line and M4, the Harbour Line===
[[File:Copenhagen Metro with City Circle Line map.svg|thumb|Diagram of Copenhagen Metro following the opening of the northern part of the M4 (2020)]]
{{main|City Circle Line|M4 (Copenhagen)||l1=City Circle Line (M3)|l2=M4}}

An expansion of the metro, the City Circle Line, opened on 29 September 2019.<ref name=bidders>{{cite web|url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/koebenhavn-cityringen-contractors-selected.html|title=København Cityringen contractors selected|date=25 November 2010|publisher=[[Railway Gazette International]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524055024/http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/koebenhavn-cityringen-contractors-selected.html|archive-date=24 May 2011 }}</ref> Independent of the existing system, it circles the city centre and connects the areas of [[Østerbro]], [[Nørrebro]] and [[Vesterbro, Copenhagen|Vesterbro]] to Frederiksberg and [[Indre By]]. The line is {{convert|15.5|km|abbr=in}} long and runs entirely in the tunnel. The circle has 17 stations, two of which are interchanges with both the M1 and M2 lines and three [[Copenhagen S-train]] stations. It takes 25 minutes to complete a full lap in either direction. Archaeological and geological surveys started in 2007, preferred bidders were announced in November 2010,<ref name=bidders /> and contracts were signed in 2011.<ref name=timeline>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/om+cityringen/tidslinje|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Aktuel tidslinje for Cityringen|trans-title=Current timeline for The City Circle Line|access-date=10 April 2013|language=da|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130420074738/http://m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/om+cityringen/tidslinje|archive-date=20 April 2013 }}</ref> Preparations began by moving utilities, etc., in 2010, and construction of work sites and stations began in 2011. Drilling of tunnels began in 2013.<ref name=timeline /> On 7 January 2011, the new project called Cityringen started with the signing of new contracts by Metroselskabet, with Ansaldo Breda and Ansaldo Sts (Finmeccanica Group) for the supply of trains and control systems, and with an Italian joint-venture led by Salin Construttori (about 60%) and [[Tecnimont]] (about 40%) with Seli as third partner for the construction part. In July 2013, Natur- og Miljøklagenævnet, the environmental appeals board, ruled that the city was wrong to grant Metroselskabet permission for 24-hour work days and noise levels of up to 78 dB at the Marmorkirken site. This forced construction to stop work at 6 PM until a final ruling was made, thus delaying the completion date.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cphpost.dk/local/around-clock-metro-construction-halted|title=The Copenhagen Post – Danish News in English|website=Cphpost.dk|access-date=9 September 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130803035009/http://cphpost.dk/local/around-clock-metro-construction-halted|archive-date=3 August 2013}}</ref>
[[File:Splitsing metro M3 en M4.jpg|thumb|Underground junction of the M3 and M4 lines. The tunnels in the middle are for the M3 line, and the outer tunnels for the M4 line.]]
Lines M3 and M4 serve the City Circle Line. The M3 opened on 29 September 2019, and its trains operate on the entire circle in either direction. The M3 has transfers to M1 and M2 at Frederiksberg and [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]].<ref name=cityringen>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/cityringen/~/media/Metro/Content/PDF%202008/Cityring_Generel_0808.ashx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Cityringen|trans-title=The City Circle Line|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da}}{{dead link|date=August 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> The line is estimated to carry 240,000&nbsp;daily passengers, bringing the metro's total daily ridership to 460,000.<ref name=tdl437 /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/cityringen/artikler/om+cityringen/passagertal.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|trans-title=Estimate of ridership|title=Prognose for passagertal|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225230959/http://www.m.dk/cityringen/artikler/om%20cityringen/passagertal.aspx|archive-date=25 February 2012 }}</ref>

The M4 was opened on 28 March 2020 when two additional stations were opened in the Nordhavn district. This line runs from [[Copenhagen Central Station]] (København H) via [[Østerport station|Østerport]] to Orientkaj station in Nordhavn, thus sharing six stations with the M3 and featuring two additional Nordhavn stations. The M4 line is interchange with the M1 and M2 at [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]].{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}

An extension to the Sydhavn district opened on June 22. 2024, served by the M4. The addition of this line relocated the M4's southern terminus from Copenhagen Central Station to København Syd .<ref name=":0" />

====Evolution of plans====
A northwestern expansion of the City Circle Line was planned, where M4 would have diverted at Nørrebro and run to the suburbs of [[Brønshøj]] and [[Gladsaxe]]. This project was abandoned, as the interchange chamber between any such line and the City Circle Line was scrapped as part of the City of Copenhagen's 2009 budget. In subsequent plans, the northern extension of the M4 was instead relocated as a [[Nordhavnen|Nordhavn]] branch which connects with the City Circle Line at [[Østerport Station|Østerport]]. The Nordhavn extension with two stations opened on 28 March 2020. The southern extension of the M4 will run from [[Copenhagen Central Station]] through [[Sydhavn station|Sydhavn]] to [[Ny Ellebjerg station|Ny Ellebjerg]], where the M4 will link up with the [[S-train]] and regional train system. The [[Danish Transport Authority]] (Trafikstyrelsen) has suggested converting the [[F (S-train)|F-line]] of the S-train network to metro standard as an M5 line. If the M5 line becomes reality, it will connect with existing lines at [[Flintholm Station]] (interchange with M1 and M2), [[Nørrebro station]] (interchange with M3), and the future [[Ny Ellebjerg station]] (interchange with M4).{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}

The fourth line, M4 or the Harbour line, shares the track with the M3 between [[Copenhagen Central Station]] and [[Østerport station]] (six stations shared). 
An additional extension to the M4 is under construction: service the southern (Sydhavn) harbour district in Copenhagen. The completed M4 between Orientkaj and Ny Ellebjerg will feature 13 stations.<ref name="om+metroen2">{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|website=M.dk|title=Københavns Metro|access-date=9 September 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909114128/http://m@m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|archive-date=9 September 2017}}</ref>

The northern extension, [[Nordhavn station]] and Orientkaj station,<ref name="om+metroen">{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|website=M.dk|title=Københavns Metro|access-date=9 September 2017|url-status=live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170909114128/http://m@m.dk/#!/om+metroen/metrobyggeriet/nordhavnslinjen|archive-date=9 September 2017}}</ref> both begun service on 28 March 2020.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://intl.m.dk/|title=The Copenhagen Metro|website=intl.m.dk|access-date=7 July 2021|archive-date=28 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128185539/https://intl.m.dk/|url-status=live}}</ref> The southern extension will add five additional stops to the M4, with its southern terminus moving from [[Copenhagen Central Station]] to Ny Ellebjerg. This line will service the southern harbour district and is expected to open by 2024.<ref name="auto"/>

As of 2019, the M1 and M2 has a total of 22 stations. After opening of the City Circle Line, the metro system is featured 3 lines with a total of 37 stations.<!--Frederiksberg and Kongens Nytorv interchanges are extensions of existing stations--> Upon completion of both extensions of the M4, the system will feature four lines with 44 stations. 8 of these will be interchanges with the [[Copenhagen S-train|S-train]].<ref name="om+metroen"/>

== Future lines discussed ==
Many new lines have been discussed. Initially Line M4 was supposed to supplement the circular [[City Circle Line|M3]] on the eastern side of the Inner City between [[Nørrebro station]] and [[Copenhagen Central Station]]. At this time, an extension was suggested from Nørrebro to the northwestern suburbs with a terminus at [[Husum station (Denmark)|Husum station]]. This was abandoned as the City of Copenhagen rejected funding interchange chamber under Nørrebro station necessary for this extension.<ref name="myldretid.dk2008">[http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/564 Ingen metro til Nordvestkvarteret] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114105616/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/564|date=14 January 2009}} myldretid.dk, 18 September 2008</ref> Instead, the city preferred the M4 to branch at [[Østerport station]] to facilitate development of the Nordhavn harbour area.<ref name="myldretid.dk2008"/>

The "M5"-label appears to having been reserved for a potential future conversion of Line F of the [[Copenhagen S-train]] to metro standard.<ref>[https://www.letbaner.dk/docs/2011-04_Udbygning-kollektivtrafik-kbh_Kk.pdf Udbygning af den kollektive trafik i København, notat] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200405142635/https://www.letbaner.dk/docs/2011-04_Udbygning-kollektivtrafik-kbh_Kk.pdf|date=5 April 2020}}, Copenhagen Municipality. Reprinted by letbaner.dk, 15 April 2011</ref> In 2011, the City of Copenhagen suggested two additional lines M6 and M7, the M6 linking the northwestern suburbs and central [[Amager]] and the M7 forming a second ring line further east than the M3,<ref>[https://jyllands-posten.dk/indland/kbh/article4525165.ece/ Fremtidens metro på kryds og tværs] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028182950/https://jyllands-posten.dk/indland/kbh/article4525165.ece/|date=28 October 2020}}, Jyllands-Posten, 5 May 2011</ref> and a western extension of the M1 or M2 to {{rws|Brøndbyøster}} was also suggested.<ref name="myldretid.dk2012">[http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/777 Enighed om metro til Nordhavnen] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190821065138/http://myldretid.dk/nyheder/nr/777|date=21 August 2019}} myldretid.dk, 6 February 2012</ref> In 2017, the city of Copenhagen suggested a new M6 line connecting [[Brønshøj]] and [[Refshaleøen]] via [[Copenhagen Central Station]].<ref>[https://www.magasinetkbh.dk/indhold/broenshoej-refshaleoeen-metro Brønshøj og Refshaleøen er næste metro-mål] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814113706/https://www.magasinetkbh.dk/indhold/broenshoej-refshaleoeen-metro|date=14 August 2020}} Magasinet KBH, 8 September 2017</ref> In 2018, the [[Lars Løkke Rasmussen III Cabinet|government]] and the city agreed on plans to construct an artificial island, [[Lynetteholmen]] north of Refshaleøen, and the city included its plans to link Copenhagen Central Station and Refshaleøen in this discussion.<ref>[https://byensejendom.dk/article/metro-til-refshaleoen-og-lynetteholmen-et-stort-skridt-naermere-26123 Metro til Refshaleøen og Lynetteholmen et stort skridt nærmere] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190821065137/https://byensejendom.dk/article/metro-til-refshaleoen-og-lynetteholmen-et-stort-skridt-naermere-26123|date=21 August 2019}}, byensejendom.dk, 23 November 2018</ref>

As of January 2018, no further development will be done after the construction of the Harbour line, or Line M4 between [[Ny Ellebjerg station]] and Orientkaj in the Nordhavn area, except for a few more stations northeast of Orientkaj.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kk.dk/indhold/borgerrepraesentationens-modemateriale/21092017/edoc-agenda/3522e89e-54eb-4e52-87b1-ee6d4a8bddb4/4749df3e-6fad-4edb-ad7e-f1add18e9983|title=- Københavns Kommune|website=Kk.dk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510150705/https://www.kk.dk/indhold/borgerrepraesentationens-modemateriale/21092017/edoc-agenda/3522e89e-54eb-4e52-87b1-ee6d4a8bddb4/4749df3e-6fad-4edb-ad7e-f1add18e9983|archive-date=10 May 2018}}</ref>

The planned [[M5 (Copenhagen Metro)|M5]] line towards [[Refshaleøen, Copenhagen|Refshaleøen]] and [[Lynetteholm]] is supposed to open in 2035. It will encompass 10 stations, of which 5 will be new.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-08 |title=København lægger sig fast på ny metrolinje M5 og vil igangsætte undersøgelse af mere metro i byen {{!}} Københavns Kommune |url=https://www.kk.dk/nyheder/koebenhavn-laegger-sig-fast-paa-ny-metrolinje-m5-og-vil-igangsaette-undersoegelse-af-mere-metro-i |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=www.kk.dk |language=da}}</ref>

=== Öresund Metro (to Sweden) ===
In September 2011, the city of Copenhagen and neighbouring [[Malmö]] in Sweden announced that they were seeking European Union funding to study a [[Øresundsmetro|potential metro line]] under the [[Øresund]] to the neighbourhood of [[Malmö Central Station]], providing faster trips and additional capacity beyond that of the existing [[Øresund Bridge]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sydsvenskan.se/malmo/article1539436/Sundsmetro-blir-fraga-for-EU.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120912134641/http://www.sydsvenskan.se/malmo/article1539436/Sundsmetro-blir-fraga-for-EU.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 September 2012|title=Sundsmetro blir fråga för EU|trans-title=Sound metro becomes question for the EU|author=Mikael Anjou|publisher=Sydsvenskan|date=5 September 2011|language=sv}}</ref> The study, for which the EU granted funding in the following December,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.dn.se/nyheter/sverige/t-bana-till-danmark-i-sikte/|title=T-bana till Danmark i sikte|trans-title=Metro to Denmark in sight|author=Ole Rothenborg|newspaper=Dagens Nyheter|date=16 December 2011|language=sv|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107150956/http://www.dn.se/nyheter/sverige/t-bana-till-danmark-i-sikte|archive-date=7 January 2012 }}</ref> will consider both a simple shuttle between the two stations and a continuous line integrated with the local transport networks on each side, and they anticipate a travel time of 15 minutes between the two city centers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.malmo.se/Nyheter/Centrala/9-5-2011-Forstudie-om-Oresundsmetron-paborjas.html|title=Förstudie om Öresundsmetron påbörjas|trans-title=Preliminary study about the Öresund metro is begun|author=Malmö stad|date=5 September 2011|language=sv|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111129201738/http://malmo.se/Nyheter/Centrala/9-5-2011-Forstudie-om-Oresundsmetron-paborjas.html|archive-date=29 November 2011 }}</ref> Work on the study is expected to continue until 2020.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Bredin|first1=Maria|title=Rapporter Öresundsmetrons 4 faser|url=https://malmo.se/Service/Var-stad-och-var-omgivning/Stadsplanering--strategier/Framtidens-kollektivtrafik/Oresundsmetro/Rapporter-Oresundsmetrons-4-faser.html|website=malmo.se|access-date=8 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190608090011/https://malmo.se/Service/Var-stad-och-var-omgivning/Stadsplanering--strategier/Framtidens-kollektivtrafik/Oresundsmetro/Rapporter-Oresundsmetrons-4-faser.html|archive-date=8 June 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Route==
{{Expand section|date=November 2022|small=no}}{{main|M1 (Copenhagen Metro)|M2 (Copenhagen Metro)|City Circle Line|M4 (Copenhagen Metro)|M5 (Copenhagen Metro)|l1=M1|l2=M2|l3=M3|l4=M4|l5=M5}}
[[File:Copenhagen Metro 2024.svg|300px|thumb|Map of the current Copenhagen Metro network (2024)]]

The metro consists of four lines, M1, M2, M3 and M4, with a planned M5 line expected to be operational in 2035. M1 and M2 share a common {{convert|7.69|km|mi|adj=on}} section from Vanløse to [[Christianshavn Station|Christianshavn]],<ref name="track schematic"/> where they split along two lines: M1 follows the Ørestad Line to Vestamager, while M2 follows the Østamager Line to the airport. The metro consists of a total route length of {{convert|20.4|km|mi|abbr=on}},<ref name="track schematic"/> and 22&nbsp;stations, 9 of which are on the section shared by both lines. M1 is {{convert|13.9|km|mi}}<ref name="track schematic"/> long and serves 15 stations, while M2 is {{convert|14.2|km|mi}}<ref name="track schematic"/> long and serves 16&nbsp;stations. About {{convert|10|km|abbr=in||1}}<ref name="track schematic"/> of the lines and 9&nbsp;stations are in tunnel, located at {{convert|20 to 30|m|ft|abbr=on}} below ground level. The remaining sections are on [[embankment (transportation)|embankments]], [[viaduct]]s or at ground level.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.urbantransport-technology.com/projects/copenhagen/|title=Copenhagen Transportation Projects, Denmark|publisher=Urban Transport Technology|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090615202713/http://www.urbantransport-technology.com/projects/copenhagen/|archive-date=15 June 2009 }}</ref>

The section from Vanløse to Frederiksberg follows the Frederiksberg Line, a former S-train line which runs on an embankment. From [[Fasanvej station]], the line runs underground, and continues this way through the city center. After Christianshavn, the line splits in two. M1 reaches ground level at Islands Brygge, and continues on a viaduct through the [[Vestamager]] area. M2 continues in tunnel until after Lergravsparken, where it starts to follow the former Amager Line.<ref>Jensen (2002): 37</ref>

The tunnels consist of two parallel tunnels; that run through stable [[limestone]] at about {{convert|30|m|abbr=on|ft}} depth, but are elevated slightly at each station. There are emergency exits every {{convert|600|m|yd|abbr=on}}, so that no train is ever further than {{convert|300|m|yd|abbr=on}} from an exit. The outer tunnel diameter is {{convert|5.5|m|abbr=on|ftin}}, while the inner diameter is {{convert|4.9|m|abbr=on|ftin}}. The tunnels were excavated by the [[cut-and-cover]] method, the [[New Austrian Tunnelling method]] and by [[tunnel boring machine]]s (TBM). Along the elevated sections, the tracks run on alternating sections of separate reinforced concrete viaducts and joint embankments made of [[mechanically stabilized earth|reinforced earth]].<ref>Jensen (2002): 36</ref>
M3 is a 15.5-kilometre (9.63&nbsp;mi) looping line which serves 17 stations. Including [[Frederiksberg station|Frederiksberg]] and [[Kongens Nytorv station|Kongens Nytorv]] which also serve M1 and M2. A full trip around the line takes approximately 29 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Se de 17 nye stationer på M3 med Cityringen|trans-title=See the 17 new stations on M3 with the City Circle Line|url=https://m.dk/rejser/se-metroens-linjer/m3-cityringen/#:~:text=M3%20Cityringen%20blev%20indviet%20i,skifte%20til%20de%20%C3%B8vrige%20metrolinjer.|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115095835/https://m.dk/rejser/se-metroens-linjer/m3-cityringen/|archive-date=15 November 2022|access-date=15 November 2022}}</ref>

The M4 line serves 13 stations, 6 of which are shared with the M3 line. It branches off the M3 line at [[Østerport station|Østerport]] in the north and at [[Copenhagen Central Station|København H]] in the south. The southern extension is the newest in the system and opened on 22 June 2024.

{| class="sortable wikitable" 
|+ Copenhagen Metro lines
! Line
! colspan="2" | Color
! Route
! Opened
! Last extension
! Length
! Stations
|-
| [[M1 (Copenhagen Metro)|M1]] || style="color:#FFFFFF; background-color:#007F60" | Green || {{rint|copenhagen|m1}} || [[Vanløse Station|Vanløse]] — [[Frederiksberg Station|Frederiksberg]] — [[Nørreport Station|Nørreport]] — [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]] — [[Ørestad Station|Ørestad]] — [[Vestamager Station|Vestamager]] || 2002 || 2003 || {{cvt|13.1|km|mi}} || 15
|-
| [[M2 (Copenhagen Metro)|M2]] || style="color:#000000; background-color:#FEC20F" | Yellow || {{rint|copenhagen|m2}} || [[Vanløse Station|Vanløse]] — [[Frederiksberg Station|Frederiksberg]] — [[Nørreport Station|Nørreport]] — [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]] — [[Amagerbro Station|Amagerbro]] — [[Lufthavnen Station|Lufthavnen]] || 2002 || 2007 || {{cvt|14.2|km|mi}} || 16
|-
| [[M3 (Copenhagen Metro)|M3]]<br>(City Circle Line) || style="color:#FFFFFF; background-color:#F8001F" | Red || {{rint|copenhagen|m3}} || [[København H]] — [[Frederiksberg Station|Frederiksberg]] — [[Nørrebro Station|Nørrebro]] — [[Østerport Station|Østerport]] — [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]] — [[København H]] || 2019 || {{n/a}} || {{cvt|15.5|km|mi}} || 17
|-
|[[M4 (Copenhagen Metro)|M4]] || style="color:#FFFFFF; background-color:#00A0BE" | Blue || {{rint|copenhagen|m4}} || [[Copenhagen South railway station|København Syd]] — [[København H]] — [[Kongens Nytorv Station|Kongens Nytorv]] — [[Østerport Station|Østerport]] — [[Nordhavn Station|Nordhavn]] — [[Orientkaj Station|Orientkaj]] || 2020 || 2024 || {{cvt|10.2|km|mi}} || 13
|-
|}

==Service==
{{update-section|date=October 2019}}
[[File:Bella center metro station by night.jpg|thumb|[[Bella Center Station]]]]
[[File:Metro Oresund Station.jpg|thumb|[[Øresund Station]] is at-grade.]]
The system operates 24/7 with a varying [[headway]] throughout the day. During rush hour (07:00–10:00 and 15:00–18:00), there is a two-minute headway on the common section and a four-minute headway on the single-service sections. During Thursday through Saturday night (0:00–05:00) on the M1 and M2 lines there is a seven/eight-minute headway on the common section and a fifteen-minute headway on the single-service sections, and other nights it is twenty-minutes on all sections of the metro. At all other times, there is a three-minute headway on the common section and a six-minute on the single-service sections.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://intl.m.dk#tab3|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Timetable|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100213082655/http://intl.m.dk/#tab3|archive-date=13 February 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Travel time from Nørreport to Vestamager on M1 is 14 minutes, to the airport on M2 is 15 minutes, and to Vanløse on M1 and M2 is 9 minutes.<ref name=transfer /> During rush hour (07:00–10:00 and 15:00–18:00), on the M3 (Cityringen) there is a three-minute headway.
During Thursday through Saturday night (0:00–05:00) on M3 there is a six-minute headway (one direction), while in the weekend it is twelve-minutes (two directions). At all other times, there is a four/five-minute headway. Travel time of the Cityringen M3 is 29 minutes.
During Thursday through Saturday night (0:00–05:00) on the M4 there is a twelve minute headway between Osterport and Orientkaj stations, while in the weekend it is a ten minute headway between Kobenhavn H Central Station and Orientkaj Station. At all other times, there is a six/ten-minute headway. Travel time of the M4 is 12 minutes (only 3 minutes late night between Osterport and Orientkaj stations). In 2009, the metro transported 50&nbsp;million passengers, or 137,000 per day;<ref name=stats>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/Metronyt/Artikler/2010/2009+i+Metroen.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=2009 i Metroen|trans-title=The metro in 2009|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120311032112/http://www.m.dk/Metronyt/Artikler/2010/2009+i+Metroen.aspx|archive-date=11 March 2012 }}</ref> by 2013, the metro's ridership increased to 55&nbsp;million.<ref name="Stats" />

The metro operates with a [[proof-of-payment]] system, so riders must have a valid ticket before entering the station platforms. The system is divided into [[fare|zones]], and the fare structure is integrated with other public transport in Copenhagen, including the buses managed by Movia, local DSB trains and the S-train.<ref name=tickets /> The system lies within four different zones.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://intl.m.dk/overview.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Overview|access-date=8 April 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100215143240/http://intl.m.dk/overview.aspx <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=15 February 2010}}</ref> [[Ticket machine]]s are available at all stations, where special tickets for dogs and bicycles can also be purchased.<ref name=tickets /> A two-zone ticket costs DKK&nbsp;24, and a three-zone ticket DKK&nbsp;36, and tickets are good for 60 minutes. Holders of the Copenhagen Card museum pass ride free of charge, as do up to two children under twelve years of age accompanied by an adult.<ref name=tickets>{{cite web|url=http://intl.m.dk#!/about+the+metro/tickets|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Tickets|access-date=24 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151127103235/http://intl.m.dk/#!/about+the+metro/tickets|archive-date=27 November 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> As of 2012, the metro has fully adapted to the national electronic fare card system [[Rejsekort]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rejsekort.dk/Hjaelp/FAQ|publisher=[[Rejsekort]]|title=Spørgsmål og svar|trans-title=Questions and answers|access-date=8 April 2010}}{{dead link|date=September 2017|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> Outside the Central zones, the outer zones are divided into sub-zones and ticketing can be a bit confusing for visitors familiar with how zones work in London or Berlin. Passengers must specify, on their ticket which sub-zone they wish to travel to.

The system is integrated with other public transport in Copenhagen. There is transfer to the S-train at Vanløse, [[Flintholm Station|Flintholm]] and Nørreport, to DSB's local trains at Nørreport, [[Ørestad Station|Ørestad]] and Lufthavnen, and to Copenhagen Airport at Lufthavnen. There are transfers to Movia bus services at all but four stations.<ref name=transfer>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/koer+med+metroen/brug+metroen/rejsetid.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Rejsetider|trans-title=Travel time|access-date=8 April 2010|language=da|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240525011608/https://www.webcitation.org/5tHlXONJx?url=http://www.m.dk/koer%20med%20metroen/brug%20metroen/rejsetid.aspx|archive-date=25 May 2024 }}</ref>

The system is owned by Metroselskabet, who is also responsible for building the City Circle Line. The company is owned by Copenhagen Municipality (50.0%), the Ministry of Transport (41.7%) and Frederiksberg Municipality (8.3%).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.m.dk/om+metroen/organisation.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Organisation|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100416005228/http://www.m.dk/om%20metroen/organisation.aspx|archive-date=16 April 2010 }}</ref> Construction and operation is subcontracted through public tenders, while consultants are used for planning.<ref>Jensen (2002): 33</ref> The contract to operate the system was made with [[Ansaldo STS]], who has subcontracted it to Metro Service, a joint venture between them and [[Azienda Trasporti Milanesi]] (ATM), the public transport company of the city of [[Milan]], Italy. The company has 285 employees, the majority of whom work as stewards.<ref name="about+the+metro">{{cite web|url=http://intl.m.dk#!/about+the+metro/about+us/metro+service|website=Intl.m.dk|title=Copenhagen Metro|access-date=9 September 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910041728/http://intl.m.dk/#!/about+the+metro/about+us/metro+service|archive-date=10 September 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

==Stations==
{{update-section|date=October 2019}}
{{main|List of Copenhagen Metro stations}}
[[File:Forum Station under jorden.JPG|left|thumb|Deep-level station design at [[Forum Station|Forum]]]]
There are 37 [[metro station|stations]] on the network.<ref name=transfer /> Of the initial 22 stations on lines M1 and M2, nine are underground and six of these are deep-level. They were all designed by [[KHR Arkitekter]], who created open stations with daylight.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arcspace.com/architects/khr/metro/index.html|author=Arcspace|title=Copenhagen Metro|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090730020956/http://www.arcspace.com/architects/khr/metro/index.html|archive-date=30 July 2009 }}</ref> Stations have an information column in front, marked with a large 'M' and featuring information screens. All stations have a [[vestibule (architecture)|vestibule]] at below ground level, which has ticket and local information, ticket machines and validators. The stations are built with [[island platform]]s<ref name=stations>Jensen (2002): 34–35</ref> and are fully [[accessibility|accessible]] for people with disabilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://intl.m.dk/drive+the+metro/safety/disabled.aspx|publisher=Copenhagen Metro|title=Disabled travellers|access-date=8 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120227105046/http://intl.m.dk/drive%2Bthe%2Bmetro/safety/disabled.aspx|archive-date=27 February 2012 }}</ref>

The deep-level stations are built as rectangular, open boxes {{convert|60|m|abbr=on|ftin}} long, {{convert|20|m|abbr=on|ftin}} wide and {{convert|20|m|abbr=on|ftin}} deep. The platforms are located {{convert|18|m|abbr=on|ftin}} below the surface. Access to the surface is reached via escalators and elevators. The design allows the stations to be located below streets and squares, allowing the stations to be built without [[Eminent domain|expropriation]]. Access to the track is blocked by [[platform screen door]]s. The underground stations on M1 and M2 were built as cut-and-cover from the top down (except Christianshavn, which was excavated as a large hole and the station built bottom-up), and the first part of construction was building a water-tight wall on all sides. There are glass pyramids on the roof of the stations permitting daylight to enter. Inside the pyramids, there are [[prism (optics)|prism]]s reflecting and splitting the light, sometimes resulting in rainbows on the walls. The light in the stations is automatically regulated to make best use of the daylight and maintain a constant level of illumination of the stations at all times.<ref name=stations />

The elevated stations are built in glass, concrete and steel to minimize their visual impact. Outside, there is parking for bicycles, cars, buses and taxis. Access to the trains are blocked by [[platform screen door]]s.<ref name=stations />

==Trains==
{{further|Hitachi Rail Italy Driverless Metro}}
[[File:Copenhagen Metro Train Interior.jpg|right|thumb|The interior of a Metro train]]

The system uses 64 driverless [[electric multiple unit]]s built by [[Hitachi Rail Italy]] and designed by Giugiaro Design of Italy called the [[Hitachi Rail Italy Driverless Metro]].<ref name=jyllands-posten2015/>

The trains are {{convert|39|m|abbr=on|ftin|frac=8}} long, {{convert|2.65|m|abbr=on|ftin|frac=8}} wide, and weigh {{convert|52|t|abbr=on}}. Each train consists of three articulated cars with a total of six automated, {{convert|1.6|m|adj=on|abbr=on|ftin|frac=8}} wide doors, holding up to 96 seated and 204 standing passengers (300 in total). There are four large 'flex areas' in each train with folding seats providing space for wheelchairs, strollers and bicycles.<ref name=maksimal>{{cite journal|title=En mini-metro med maksimal virkning|trans-title=A mini-metro with maximum output|last=Haas|first=Torkil|year=2002|issue=2|journal=Jernbanen|pages=52–53|language=da|url=http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad2-2002metro-togportræt.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719124947/http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad2-2002metro-togportr%C3%A6t.pdf|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref>

Each car is equipped with two [[three-phase]] [[induction motor|asynchronous]] {{convert|105|kW|adj=on|abbr=on}} [[electric motor|motors]], giving each train a power output of {{convert|630|kW|abbr=on}}. In each car, the two motors are fed by the car's own [[insulated-gate bipolar transistor|IGBT]] [[Variable-frequency drive|motor drive]]. They transform the 750-volt [[direct current]] collected from the [[third rail|third rail shoe]] to the three-phase alternating current used in the motors. The trains' top speed are {{convert|80|km/h|abbr=on}}, while the average service speed is {{convert|40|km/h|abbr=on}}, with an acceleration and deceleration capacity of {{Convert|1.3|m/s/s|mph/s|abbr=on}} along the [[standard gauge|standard-gauge]] track.<ref name=maksimal />

==Operations==
[[File:Kopenhage Metro Control.jpg|thumb|right|The control room]]
The entire metro system and the trains are run by a fully automated computer system, located at the two Control and Maintenance Centers, south of Vestamager Station (M1 + M2), and at Sydhavnen (M3 + M4).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.railwaygazette.com/projects-and-planning/k%C3%B8benhavn-inaugurates-cityringen-m3/54729.article|title=København inaugurates Cityringen M3|website=Railway Gazette International|access-date=7 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184654/https://www.railwaygazette.com/projects-and-planning/k%C3%B8benhavn-inaugurates-cityringen-m3/54729.article|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[automatic train control]] (ATC) consists of three subsystems: [[automatic train protection]] (ATP), [[automatic train operation]] (ATO) and automatic train supervisory (ATS). The ATP is responsible for keeping the trains' speed, ensuring that doors are closed before departure and [[railroad switch|switches]] are correctly set. The system uses [[block signalling|fixed block signaling]], except around stations, where moving block signaling is used.<ref name=safety>Jensen (2002): 39</ref>

The ATO is the [[autopilot]] that runs the trains on a predefined schedule, ensures that the trains stop at the station and open the doors. The ATS keeps track of all the components in the network, including the rails and all of the trains in the system, and displays a live schematic at the control center. The ATC is designed so that the ATP is the only [[safety-critical system]], as it would halt the trains if the other systems fail. The safety and signaling specifications are based on the German [[BOStrab]], and controlled by [[TÜV Rheinland]] and {{lang|no|[[Det Norske Veritas]]}} under supervision of the Public Transport Authority. Other aspects of the system, such as power supply, ventilation, security alarms, cameras and pumps, are controlled by a system called "control, regulating and surveillance".<ref name=safety />

=== Vestamager CMC ===
{{update-section|date=October 2019}}
The Control and Maintenance Center is a {{convert|1.1|ha|adj=on}} facility located at the south end of M1. It consists of a storage area for trains not in use, a maintenance area and the control facility. Trains operate automatically through the system, and can also automatically be washed on the exterior. The facility has {{convert|5|km|abbr=on}} of track, of which {{convert|800|m|yd|abbr=on}} is a test track for use after maintenance. The most common repairs are wheel grinding; more complicated repairs are made by replacing entire components that are sent to the manufacturer. By having components in reserve, trains can have shorter maintenance time. The depot also has several maintenance trains, including diesel locomotives<ref>{{cite web|url=http://imgur.com/a/7D9eF|title=Imgur: The most awesome images on the Internet|website=Imgur.com|access-date=9 September 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304065133/http://imgur.com/a/7D9eF|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> that are able to retrieve broken down or disabled trains.<ref name=controlcenter>Jensen (2002): 40–41</ref>

At any time, there are four or five people working at the control center: two monitor the ATC system, one monitors passenger information, and one is responsible for secondary systems, such as power supply. In case of technical problems, there is always a team of linepeople that can be dispatched to perform repairs. Although the trains are not equipped with drivers, there are stewards at stations and on most trains that help passengers, perform ticket controls and assist in emergency situations.<ref name=controlcenter />

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Sources==
*{{cite journal|title=Bag om metroen|trans-title=Behind the metro|last=Jensen|first=Tommy O.|year=2002|issue=5|journal=Jernbanen|pages=32–41|language=da|url=http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad5-2002bag-om-metroen-ny4.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719124850/http://www.jernbaneklub.dk/jernbanen/2002/blad5-2002bag-om-metroen-ny4.pdf|archive-date=19 July 2011 }}
* {{cite web|title=Passagertal - Metroen|trans-title=Number of passengers|url=https://m.dk/om-metroen/metroen-i-tal/passagertal/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115093625/https://m.dk/om-metroen/metroen-i-tal/passagertal/|archive-date=November 15, 2022|access-date=November 15, 2022|publisher=Metroselskabet|language=da}}

==External links==
{{commons and category|Copenhagen Metro|Copenhagen Metro}}
* {{official website|http://intl.m.dk}}
* [http://www.urbanrail.net/eu/dk/kobenhavn/kobenhavn.htm Copenhagen at ''UrbanRail.net'']
* [https://copenhagencard.com/ Copenhagen Card]

{{Copenhagen Metro}}
{{Underground rapid transit in the European Union}}
{{Urban rail transport in Denmark}}

[[Category:Copenhagen Metro| ]]
[[Category:Rail transport in Copenhagen]]
[[Category:Underground rapid transit in Denmark]]
[[Category:Railway infrastructure companies]]
[[Category:750 V DC railway electrification]]
[[Category:2002 establishments in Denmark]]
[[Category:Railway lines opened in 2002]]
[[Category:Automated guideway transit]]