Line D commenced operation under human control on 4 September 1991, between Gorge de Loup and Grange Blanche.

[1] Being the deepest of the lines in Lyon, it was constructed mainly using boring machines and passes under both rivers, the Rhône and the Saône.

At 12.5 kilometres (7.8 mi) long[1] and serving 15 stations,[1] it is also the longest metro line in Lyon.

The 2 cars of each train will be connected with gangways, which is a novelty in Lyon Metro rolling stock.

[citation needed] The MPL 16 trains won't be able to run on the line D with the current driverless system, MAGGALY.