Westbahn has started commercial long-distance operations on Austria’s new Southern Line (Südstrecke), linking Vienna, Graz, Klagenfurt and Villach via the Koralm tunnel.
The launch follows the opening of the Koralm Railway, which forms part of the upgraded north–south axis in Austria. Westbahn is operating the services on an open-access basis and at its own commercial risk.
SMILE high-speed multiple units enter Austrian service
Westbahn is introducing new Stadler SMILE high-speed multiple units built in Europe for the route. The trains are designed for high-capacity long-distance operation, with onboard accessibility features and energy-efficient traction systems.
The Koralm line connects Vienna and Graz with Klagenfurt and Villach through the 33 km Koralm tunnel, reducing journey times between Styria and Carinthia and integrating the southern regions more closely with the capital.
Open-access competition on the Southern Line
With Westbahn’s entry, passengers on the Vienna–Graz–Klagenfurt–Villach corridor can now choose between competing long-distance operators. Westbahn has announced additional frequencies and market-based fares on the route.
ÖBB continues to operate long-distance services on the same corridor under directly awarded public service contracts. These services are financed through public compensation mechanisms, while Westbahn runs without operating subsidies.
The corridor therefore combines infrastructure financed by public investment with parallel operation by a state-owned incumbent under public service contracts and a private operator running on a commercial open-access basis.
