ÖBB will introduce double-deck trains in long-distance service from late 2026. On Wednesday, visitors in Vienna got their first look at one of 14 Stadler-built double-deck Railjets, each seating nearly 500. Initially, these 200 km/h, low-floor-entry trains will run on the West line; they’ll serve the South line once the Semmering Base Tunnel opens.
The €300 million investment benefits wheelchair users, parents with strollers, cyclists, and travelers with bulky luggage—and speeds boarding. The six-car, 486-seat train includes “catering zones” with snack and drink machines. Amenities feature modern interiors, free Wi-Fi, power outlets (including USB), climate control, and NFC-secured luggage racks.
At 160 m long with two classes, the train offers two wheelchair spaces in the middle car with height-adjustable tables, room for ten bicycles, eight toilets (one fully accessible), and video surveillance.
Interior prototypes were inspected by ÖBB CEO Andreas Matthä, Transport Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ), and Stadler Chairman Peter Spuhler. Hanke noted this rollout is part of a €6.1 billion fleet investment by 2030. Matthä called the double-deck Railjet “a milestone in modern rail travel,” boosting capacity on long-distance routes.
Private operator Westbahn has long run Stadler double-deck trains on the West line. Westbahn co-owner Hans Peter Haselsteiner quipped that ÖBB’s adoption confirms the success of his earlier initiative.
