ÖBB has started the construction of the final expansion phase (phase 2) for the Vienna South freight hub which will increase the terminal capacity by 44%.
The project has started due to growing demand and high utilisation and consists of the construction of new tracks and switch connections that will simplify handling operations and unlock additional capacity. A total of eight 700-metre loading tracks will be available to customers.
A further portal crane system, which will eventually be fully automated, marks another leap in performance. In addition, the two existing cranes will be upgraded to support future automation. Adjustments to roads and other technical infrastructure will complete the full expansion.
The project is being delivered by the “New Construction & Expansion Projects” division of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG.
“Rail freight is one of the most powerful levers in greening transport. The full expansion of the Vienna South freight terminal sends a strong signal to both the economy and the public,” Judith Engel, Board Member for Infrastructure Facility Provision, said.
Vienna South is one of seven freight terminals in Austria operated by Terminal Service Austria (TSA), a division of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG. The terminal’s core business is the handling of containers, swap bodies and semi-trailers in unaccompanied combined transport. Since commissioning, TSA has continuously developed the site and positioned it as a key hub in Europe’s transport and logistics network.
With the final expansion, the range of services for shippers, freight forwarders, operators and rail transport companies will be significantly enhanced. “With the expansion of the Vienna South terminal, we remain on a growth path, placing a strong focus on innovation and digitalisation, while keeping our customers at the centre. At the same time, we are investing in more efficient and productive processes to strengthen competitiveness and support a greener future,” Johann Pluy, ÖBB-Infrastruktur Board Member for Operations, Market and Digitalisation, said.
The second phase of Vienna South freight hub development will be completed by the end of 2026, when terminal capacity will increase from 380,000 to 547,000 TEUs.
Since late 2016, the multifunctional freight terminal on the southern outskirts of Vienna has served as the “main station” for freight transport. Intermodal transport units from around the world are transshipped here between road and rail.
Constructed between 2013 and 2016, Vienna South freight hub is strategically located at the intersection of the Pottendorfer Line and the S1 Vienna Outer Ring Motorway. Its prime location makes the shift from road to rail particularly attractive in the eastern region of Austria, lying along the S1 motorway, the Southern Railway line, and three trans-European railway corridors. This ensures easy access to major economic centres across Europe.
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