The Incheon Airport Railroad is attracting a rising number of foreign travelers thanks to its easy and convenient access to downtown Seoul, according to both railway officials and passengers.

The trains depart from Incheon International Airport Station to connect to Gimpo International Airport and other key spots in Seoul.

On-time departures and arrivals, along with a short connecting time, appeared to be some of the factors behind the recent surge in foreign passengers using the trains.

The platform is a five-minute walk from the arrival gate at Incheon airport.

Two types of trains ― nonstop and regular trains ― are operated on the railway.

The nonstop train reaches Seoul Station from Incheon airport in 43 minutes. It has reserved seats for individuals.

The regular train stops at 11 stations in less than an hour, passing through key areas in Seoul. Long benches are shared with other passengers and standing is allowed.

The fare for the regular train is 4,050 won, while the nonstop train costs 8,000 won ($7.40) per person or 6,000 won per person for groups of more than four people.

Similar to when using other subway trains in Korea, passengers must purchase a rechargeable plastic card to use the airport train, with a deposit of 500 won that can be reimbursed at the arrival station.

The ticket for nonstop trains can be purchased without the deposit money, railway officials said.

In a bid to better serve visiting travelers, the Incheon Airport Railroad has installed telephone booths at the five most crowded stations ― Incheon Airport Station, Gimpo Airport Station, Hongik University Station, Gongdeok Station and Seoul Station.

For assistance, call 1330, which is operated in three languages ― English, Japanese and Chinese ― 24 hours a day in partnership with the Korea Tourism Organization.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)