Train traffic in Austria: ÖBB boss warns of massive problems!

Train traffic in Austria: ÖBB boss warns of massive problems!

Oberösterreich, Österreich - The ÖBB faces a massive challenge! ÖBB boss Andreas Matthä announced that from 2026 Austrian train traffic will be severely affected by extensive renovation work from Deutsche Bahn. This work, which is urgently necessary to renew the infrastructure, will be noticeable in the form of diversions, extended travel times and timetable changes. According to Matthä, the patience of the passengers is required during this time, since not a single Austrian freight train was already on schedule in Germany last year.

The consequences of these renovations are serious: for 2026, as well as the years 2027 and 2028, extensive route closures have been announced. This means a permanent difficulty for passenger and freight transport in Austria. Despite the maximum load of the rail infrastructure, only 80 percent of the current capacities can be guaranteed. Based on these restrictions, freight traffic is relocated to the street, which means additional pressure on the transport infrastructure. In Upper Austria, Infrastructure Councilor Günther Steinkellner in particular sees the A8 to Passau as affected, so reports ooe.orf.at .

an appeal to travelers

Matthä emphasizes that the current delays in the ÖBB are caused by around 50 percent by difficulties abroad. In order to mitigate the effects of the announced renovations, passengers are called to find out about possible detours and timetable changes at an early stage. For the coming years, a significant switch to alternative means of transport can be expected, while the rail networks are technically challenged around the clock. The company page kosmo.at also reports that travelers have to be prepared for the travel times to be extended considerably, while maintaining rail traffic is under pressure.