ComfortJet: ČD-ÖBB’s High-Speed Rail Innovation in Central Europe

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Introduction

ČD and ÖBB unveiled the ComfortJet train on August 20, marking the introduction of state-of-the-art international long-distance services scheduled to commence in December 2025, including a new direct connection from Prague to Villach via Vienna and Graz.

New Services and Connections

The ComfortJet train was officially presented at Vienna Main Station on August 20, with the CEOs of ČD, Michal Krapinec, and ÖBB, Andreas Matthä, in attendance. ČD announced the commencement of a direct rail connection between Carinthia and Prague, with three daily trains planned from Prague to Villach via Vienna and Graz, beginning in December 2025. The Koralmbahn line will reduce travel time between Vienna and Klagenfurt to approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Enhanced Capacity and Comfort

The ComfortJet trains will enhance rail services between Vienna and Prague, providing nine daily connections, with six operated by the new high-capacity trains. Each nine-car ComfortJet offers 555 seats, including 99 in first class, an increase in capacity compared to existing models. These trains will include a dining car with 18 seats, spaces for wheelchair users, family areas, a children’s cinema, and facilities for 12 bicycles.

Operational Details and Route

The ComfortJet will offer three daily services connecting Prague, Brno, Vienna, Graz, Klagenfurt, and Villach in Carinthia, with the full journey taking around eight hours. ČD and ÖBB presented the ComfortJet in Graz and Klagenfurt on the same day, with the train completing its journey in Villach. Test runs on the Koralmbahn line have been conducted at speeds up to 230 km/h.

Investment and Future Plans

ÖBB plans to expand its fleet to 40 next-generation Railjets by 2030, investing approximately EUR 6.1 billion in new trains. This expansion includes 12 nine-car and 28 seven-car trainsets, in response to increased passenger numbers. ÖBB reported a record of 511 million passenger journeys in the most recent year.

Conclusion

The introduction of the ComfortJet represents a collaboration between ČD and ÖBB to improve international rail travel, focusing on passenger needs and sustainable transport. The partnership aims to enhance cross-border connectivity and increase the use of rail for international travel.

Company Summary

ČD: ČD is a railway company that is collaborating with ÖBB to improve international rail services.

ÖBB: ÖBB is an Austrian railway company that is investing in new trains and expanding its services in partnership with ČD.

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