A MAJOR milestone in the development of a rail link from the city to the airport and Perth's eastern suburbs was achieved last week when State Parliament passed enabling legislation for the $2 billion Forrestfield-Airport Link.

The Legislative Council passed the Railway (Forrestfield-Airport Link) Bill 2015, which establishes the State Government's authority to extend the metropolitan rail network 8.5 kilometres to Forrestfield.

Above: Artist's impression of Airport West station platform / Public Transport Authority.

Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the construction contract would be awarded next year and the first trains would run on the line in 2020.

"This project won't just open up a new rail corridor to Perth's eastern foothills - it will also provide a direct rail connection to the airport for all West Australians," the Minister said.

Above: Map showing location of new stations as part of Forrestfield-Airport Link / Public Transport Authority.

The rail link will connect with the existing Midland line near Bayswater Station and will run to Forrestfield through underground tunnels, to ensure minimal impact on the existing land and road network.

It will feature three new stations, including a bus-train interchange station at Airport West (Belmont), a second station at Consolidated Airport (near the current international terminal) and a bus-train interchange station on Dundas Road in Forrestfield.

The next step before this Bill becomes law is the royal assent of the legislation by Governor Kerry Sanderson.

Images: Forrestfield-Airport Link / Public Transport Authority.