ÖBB and Wiener Linien, the public transport operator in the Austrian capital, are continuing the modernization of the main Vienna S-Bahn line by starting two major phases this year.
To carry out the planned work, the route between Wien Praterstern and Wien Floridsdorf will be closed from July to September, and the most extensive phase of work will take place over 14 months, when the section between Wien Hauptbahnhof and Wien Praterstern will be closed from September 2026. This is the central section of the Vienna S-Bahn main line, where ÖBB will begin work on modernizing infrastructure elements, including viaducts and embankment retaining walls, to allow for longer, more modern trains and increased capacity in the future.
“The upcoming stages of work are well prepared and alternative services are planned in detail. However, it will be a difficult period for all passengers,” said Judith Engel, member of the ÖBB Infrastruktur Management Board. She added that the modernization program for the main line of the Vienna S-Bahn will mean higher standards not only in terms of infrastructure and systems, but also in terms of travel, and that “by the end of 2027, transport will be fast, smart, and stress-free.”
At the same time, Wiener Linien is using the summer months for extensive work on the urban network, aiming to renew 12.5 km of tram lines and start major maintenance work on the subway network.
Scientifically based alternative travel options
To ensure that passengers can continue to travel safely and reliably during this intensive phase of work, ÖBB and Wiener Linien have developed a comprehensive, scientifically based alternative transport concept in collaboration with the Austrian Institute for Spatial Planning (ÖIR). This was presented on February 12 by Judith Engel, Alexandra Reinagl, CEO of Wiener Linien, and Gerald Kovacic, member of the Board of the Austrian Institute for Spatial Planning.
“Taking on an additional number of passengers for a year, especially during peak hours, is no small feat. It is a challenge, but one that we will manage together by adding extra lines, adjusting service intervals, and offering dedicated alternatives. This will ensure that our passengers can travel comfortably and safely despite the construction work,” said the CEO of Wiener Linien.
As passengers and their mobility are extremely important to ÖBB and Wiener Linien, they are working closely together to coordinate their work and will then inform passengers. With the announcement of the next stages of the project, detailed information materials and optimized mobility scenarios have been made available to help passengers choose the most efficient travel options.
In addition, the two entities will communicate all upcoming restrictions and available alternatives to passengers, launching a comprehensive communication initiative. Informative leaflets will be distributed in the main stations in Vienna and Lower Austria as early as the preparatory phase.
In addition, posters, information screens, and audio announcements throughout the eastern region—both in stations and on trains—will ensure extensive information. The campaign will be complemented by advertisements in high-reach media, as well as a dedicated online and social media component. This will ensure that passengers can continue to plan their journeys reliably and efficiently.
The main line of the Vienna S-Bahn (or Stammstrecke) was opened in 1962, and some sections have been in operation for around 150 years, making the implementation of a comprehensive modernization program essential. The 13 km line runs from Vienna Meidling in the south to Vienna Floridsdorf in the north. It is currently indispensable for city residents and commuters in Lower Austria.
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