Objective Passenger flow in the initial stage of Jinan rail transit network operation is characterized by rapid growth, obvious fluctuations, and unbalanced spatiotemporal distribution. To deeply explore passenger flow characteristics from multiple aspects, it is necessary to conduct an in-depth study on the spatiotemporal characteristics of passenger flow in the initial stage of Jinan rail transit network operation.

Method Based on the passenger flow data of Jinan Rail Transit from 2019 to 2024, the data from March to August of 2024 after the formation of a three-line network are selected as typical operation data. Combined with spatiotemporal data statistics and geographic information system （GIS） visualization analysis methods, the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and dynamic evolution patterns of passenger flow in the initial stage of Jinan rail transit network operation are systematically investigated. Based on the results of passenger flow characteristic analysis, the main problems and challenges existing in the Jinan rail transit network are analyzed, and targeted recommendations are put forward.

Result & Conclusion At present, the main problems in the operation and development of Jinan Rail Transit include the relatively low passenger flow volume and intensity of the overall network, the unbalanced spatiotemporal distribution of the network passenger flow, and insufficient coordination and connection with other urban travel modes. In future development, Jinan Rail Transit should take multiple measures, such as promoting urban rail transit passenger flow cultivation, optimizing train operation organization schemes, strengthening the integration of urban rail transit with other transportation modes, improving the coordinated operation level of lines within the network, and empowering intelligent operation, so as to enhance its operational efficiency and service level.