ÖBB Vienna South Freight Hub Expansion: Rail Capacity Boost

“`html

Introduction

ÖBB has commenced the final expansion phase (phase 2) of the Vienna South freight hub, a project set to increase terminal capacity by 44%. The expansion includes new tracks, switch connections, and an automated portal crane system, with completion scheduled for the end of 2026.

Project Overview

The expansion project is driven by increasing demand and high utilization at the Vienna South freight hub. It encompasses the construction of new tracks and switch connections designed to streamline handling operations and increase capacity. The project will provide a total of eight 700-meter loading tracks for customer use.

Infrastructure Enhancements

A key component of the expansion is the installation of a further portal crane system, which will eventually be fully automated. In addition, the two existing cranes will be upgraded to support future automation. The project also includes adjustments to roads and other technical infrastructure.

Operational and Strategic Impact

The project is being managed by the “New Construction & Expansion Projects” division of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG. The expansion of the Vienna South terminal aims to enhance services for shippers, freight forwarders, operators, and rail transport companies. Upon completion, the terminal’s capacity will increase from 380,000 to 547,000 TEUs by the end of 2026.

Terminal Operations and Location

Vienna South, one of seven freight terminals in Austria operated by Terminal Service Austria (TSA), a division of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, focuses on handling containers, swap bodies, and semi-trailers in unaccompanied combined transport. The terminal, operational since late 2016, serves as a major hub for freight transport, transshipping intermodal transport units between road and rail. The hub is strategically located at the intersection of the Pottendorfer Line and the S1 Vienna Outer Ring Motorway, offering convenient access to major economic centers across Europe via the S1 motorway, the Southern Railway line, and three trans-European railway corridors.

Conclusion

The final expansion phase of the Vienna South freight hub, managed by ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, will increase terminal capacity by 44% by the end of 2026. This expansion includes new infrastructure and automation upgrades to enhance services and support a greener future for rail freight operations.

Company Summary

ÖBB: ÖBB (Österreichische Bundesbahnen) is the national railway company of Austria.

ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG: A division of ÖBB responsible for infrastructure.

Terminal Service Austria (TSA): A division of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG that operates freight terminals in Austria.

“`