Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) is increasing its order of new-generation Railjets to accommodate sustained growth in long-distance passenger numbers, particularly across international daytime routes. By 2030, the company plans to operate 40 Railjets of the latest generation—significantly more than the 27 units originally planned.
The decision comes amid record-breaking passenger figures. In 2023 and again in 2024, ÖBB achieved its highest-ever annual ridership, with 511 million journeys recorded in the most recent full year.
“We see strong growth ahead in international daytime long-distance travel, particularly on routes to our neighbouring countries,” said ÖBB CEO Andreas Matthä. “That’s why we’re expanding the capacity of our Railjet fleet.”
The updated procurement plan includes:
- 40 new-generation Railjets by 2030
- 12 trainsets in 9-car configuration
- 28 trainsets in 7-car configuration
The Railjets are being built by Siemens Mobility, and the order has been modified to reflect changes in demand. The 7-car Railjets will retain the same level of comfort, design, and on-board equipment as the longer units. However, the shorter formation allows for double traction operations, particularly on domestic routes within Austria and cross-border services to Germany.
Delivery of all new Railjet trainsets is expected to be completed by 2030, in line with ÖBB’s long-term fleet expansion plans.
Nightjet fleet adjusted, but remains core to overnight strategy
While the Railjet programme sees a significant scale-up, the Nightjet fleet—ÖBB’s flagship overnight service—will see a slightly reduced expansion. The railway will now receive 24 new-generation Nightjets by mid-2026, compared to the originally planned 33 units.
The adjustment was agreed with Siemens Mobility and reflects updated operational planning. Despite the reduced number of new trainsets, ÖBB says the modernised fleet will still offer increased sleeping and couchette capacity across its network, supported by existing rolling stock.
With this strategy, ÖBB aims to maintain its position as Europe’s leading operator of overnight rail services. Together with partner railways across the continent, the company continues to invest in improving service quality, capacity, and connectivity within the wider European night train network.
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