Austria’s ÖBB Launches New Cityjet Double-Decker Trains in June
Austria’s national rail operator ÖBB has presented its new Cityjet double-decker trains. The first services will begin at the end of June. Therefore, commuters and travelers will enjoy more capacity.
The new trains were shown during a premiere journey from Vienna Hauptbahnhof to Wiener Neustadt. By the end of 2026, 45 new double-decker trains will be in service. Consequently, eastern Austria’s rail network gets a major upgrade.
Where the New Trains Will Run
The first route will be from Vienna to Payerbach-Reichenau. This service starts at the end of June. In the longer term, the trains will serve the north-south axis in eastern Austria.
This includes REX services from Znojmo and Retz via the Nordwestbahn. Services from Břeclav and Bernhardsthal are also included. The trains will continue through Vienna toward Wiener Neustadt and Payerbach-Reichenau.
More Seats and Space for Bikes
ÖBB is buying 109 new train sets in total. The investment is around €1.5 billion. A six-car train will carry about 591 passengers. A four-car version will carry about 371 passengers.
The trains can travel at speeds up to 160 km/h. They are supplied by Swiss company Stadler. Therefore, passengers will enjoy modern and efficient travel.
The new trains offer up to 25% more seats than their predecessors. Low-floor entry areas make boarding easier for passengers with reduced mobility. Pushchairs and heavy luggage are also accommodated.
Each carriage has multi-purpose areas for pushchairs and bicycles. A six-car train can carry up to 60 bicycles. Two wheelchair spaces with height-adjustable side tables are included. An accessible toilet with a changing table is also available.
Why ÖBB Is Adding Them
ÖBB chief Andreas Matthä pointed to high demand in eastern Austria. About two-thirds of the company’s total local transport service is in this region. Therefore, more capacity is essential.
Transport Minister Peter Hanke described rail as an “elementary lever” for sustainable mobility. Lower Austria’s deputy governor noted the new trains will bring “less crowding, less stress, more quality of life.”
Largest Investment Programme in History
The new double-decker trains are part of ÖBB’s largest investment programme. The wider programme includes €6.1 billion for around 330 new trains by 2030. In conclusion, Austria’s rail future is bright and sustainable.
