A new system is aimed to replace the Glória funicular in 2029

Carris plans to install a new system to replace the Glória funicular, which was closed after the fatal accident on September 3, 2025. It is aimed that the international design and construction tender will be opened in the first quarter of 2027 and the new facility will be put into service in 2029.

A new plan for the future of the Glória funicular, one of Lisbon's iconic means of transportation, has been announced. Instead of rebuilding the old system, Carris aims for a new facility that will be designed according to current technical and safety standards.

The plan was brought to the agenda after the accident that occurred on September 3, 2025, in which 16 people died and 24 people were injured. The Glória funicular has been out of service since then.

According to the schedule announced by Carris President Rui Lopo on August 31, the international public tender for the design and construction of the new system is expected to be opened in the first quarter of 2027. The goal is for the new funicular to start operating in 2029.

The approach described involves installing a new technical solution rather than simply remaking the previous system. Carris states that he aims to strike a balance between security, transportation function, public space and historical identity. It is planned to preserve the existing character of Calçada da Glória.

The technical investigation into the causes of the accident has not been completed yet. The final report of the railway and aviation accident investigation authority GPIAAF is expected to be published by the end of the first quarter of 2027 due to the complexity of technical investigations.

It is planned that Carris will continue its alternative minibus service while the Glória line is not operating. The technical details of the new project, the tender process and the features of the system to be selected will be clarified later.

The announcement of a plan for a new and safe solution after the serious accident is seen as a delayed step. It is important to preserve historical identity; but safety standards must unquestionably be a priority. The main criterion will be the implementation of the 2029 target through a transparent process and by fully meeting security requirements.

Practical knowledge

The Glória funicular remains closed. Those planning transportation in the region should check Carris' current service announcements and the alternative 51E line.

Sources reviewed

Carris – 2026 activity and budget plan

Lisbon Municipality – Statement on the future of Glória

Diário de Notícias – international tender and 2029 target

Renascença/Lusa – timetable for the final report of the accident investigation