Construction has begun on a so-called “skybridge” connecting Perth Airport’s Terminal 1 to the new train station.

The 280m walkway will be used by passengers arriving or leaving the airport by rail when the Forrestfield-Airport Link opens in late 2020.

The skybridge, which will have travelators and lifts, is being built by Georgiou Group with funds from the rail link project.

Construction of the station at Airport Central is advanced, with columns to support the different levels within the station box almost finished.

The tunnel boring machines for the airport link are now both clear of the main runway, a major milestone.

“This skybridge is a major step in ensuring that we make taking public transport to the airport as easy and user-friendly as possible for passengers, and assist in creating a world-class visitor experience for all,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.

“At the cost of a standard two-zone fare to the CBD, we see travelling to and from the airport by train as a desirable and convenient option.”

Perth Airport chief executive Kevin Brown added: “The skybridge will connect the station with current and future terminal infrastructure and we will be looking at opportunities to create a ‘sense of place’ in the walkway which will offer visitors a great welcome to Western Australia.”