End of the Railjet connection: Bolzano relies on new regional trains!

End of the Railjet connection: Bolzano relies on new regional trains!

A significant change is imminent in cross-border rail traffic between Austria and Italy. The state government has decided not to continue the contract with the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) for the Railjet connection between Vienna and Bolzano beyond 2026. This decision could mean the end of a usual connection for many travelers and commuters who regularly travel between Tyrol and South Tyrol. Loud locomotive report The connection is being discontinued primarily due to the poor reliability of the trains, which have often been affected by delays and cancellations in the past.

What does this mean specifically for travelers? From December 2026, a new arrangement with hourly regional trains will be introduced between South Tyrol and Innsbruck. These trains offer direct connections to other cities such as Vienna, Munich and Zurich, without the need to change at the Brenner Pass. This could increase travel comfort and shorten journey times, as regional trains are intended to represent a more reliable alternative to the previously inconsistent long-distance trains. The funds that will be released due to the expiration of the contract amounting to around 4.85 million euros will be reinvested in local public transport. The aim is to improve the offer and quality for students, commuters and travelers, according to the responsible state councilor Daniel Alfreider.

Strategic realignment in local transport

The decision is presented as part of a long-term strategy, also with a view to the opening of the Brenner Base Tunnel in 2032. This tunnel promises new opportunities for economically operated long-distance transport connections, which could better connect the region with other European cities in the future. Alfreider emphasizes that this realignment is necessary in order to invest in functioning public transport.

The criticism of this decision cannot be overlooked. Christofer Ranzmaier, the FPÖ South Tyrol spokesman, describes the measure as a “transport policy disgrace” and has announced a parliamentary question to question the exact reasons for the frequent delays and cancellations of the previous direct connection. This reveals a certain imbalance between passengers' needs and the services provided, which should be urgently addressed in the coming months.

A look at cross-border traffic

The situation on the rail market is not unique for this route. Many European regions are struggling with similar challenges. In Germany, for example, developments in cross-border local passenger transport show that the range of regional trains and connections must be constantly expanded in order to meet the needs of commuters and travelers. The failures of the past must not become the norm and a smart, sustainable system must be promoted to improve mobility across Europe, such as Wikipedia provides.

Overall, the decision to close the Railjet connection between Bolzano and Vienna gives hope that regional rail transport will be made more reliable in the future. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how the implementation of the new regional trains will develop and whether they can meet the expectations of passengers.