The Baltic Sea region has traditionally been known as an innovative and sustainable area where lots of attention is turned at the same time into use of new technologies and the welfare of the people. PA Transport is in opinion that the efficient and sustainable transportation has a significant role in our region in the future.

Therefore, the PA Transport appreciated the kind invitation of the VASAB Secretariat to share views and give feedback on their visionary document describing the desirable future of the Baltic Sea region in 2040. The document "VASAB Long-Term Perspective for the Territorial Development of the Baltic Sea Region" is a forward-looking vision describing the desirable future of the region, comprising both the spatial and transport elements.

PA Transport is in opinion that all transport modes have their specific role in the Baltic Sea region in 2040. Therefore, it is equally important to develop rail and port network but also construct roads and airports. We share the VASAB’s view that transport between towns is getting more environmentally friendly and digitalized. At the same time we would like to emphasise the importance of transport in urban areas. The biggest changes will happen in urban areas of metropolitan centres, where traditional transport modes will be complemented or even replaced by new innovative solutions. In our vision metropolitan towns will be places where autonomous vehicles will be used in public transport, unmanned aircrafts will deliver parcels and electric vertical take-off and landing aircrafts (eVTOL) will provide taxi service.

PA Transport coordinators hope that the good cooperation with VASAB will continue in the future and both parties can create synergies supporting each other in their activities. VASAB has long term experience in developing strategical visions which take into account different aspects of planning processes. At the same time PA Transport can offer sectorial knowledge.

The draft document of the Long-Term Perspective for the Territorial Development of the Baltic Sea Region can be read here.