The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is hoping that a new subway line will provide better access to and from Haneda Airport.

It plans to open a 6-kilometer line by 2040 that starts from near Tokyo Station and ends near the Tokyo Big Sight convention center in the bay area.

Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit, which runs the Rinkai Line, is set to be in charge of operating the new line. The railway company is partially funded by the Tokyo government and East Japan Railway.

The new subway line's terminal near Tokyo Big Sight is likely to be built close to an existing Rinkai Line station.

East Japan Railway plans to open a new route that connects Haneda Airport with central Tokyo in fiscal 2031. Part of the route will use Rinkai Line tracks.

The Metropolitan Government hopes that the new subway line's connection with the Rinkai Line will improve access from the bay area to Haneda Airport and contribute to the area's further development.

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko told reporters on Friday that the subway line will play a key role in improving railway networks in the bay area and in making the capital more attractive and vibrant.

She said that better connectivity with Haneda Airport will enable visitors from abroad to enjoy more convenient access to central Tokyo.