Hellenic Train announced plans to gradually introduce new trains to the Greek rail network in the second quarter of 2027, targeting a doubling of passenger numbers to nearly 28 million in the coming years.
The company emphasized that achieving this goal depends on completing infrastructure projects and maintaining the network through long-term service agreements. Hellenic Train Chairman Athanasios Zilaskopoulos stressed that “infrastructure must be continuously well-maintained” and noted that the responsibility lies with the Ministry and the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE). He warned that fragmented interventions will not ensure reliability and called for long-term planning and stable maintenance contracts.
CEO Roberto Rinaudo highlighted that Hellenic Train has already fast-tracked its order with Alstom, securing new trains in two years instead of the usual 3–4. A test train will arrive in January 2027 to undergo several months of trials and European certification, with driver training beginning in February. The full fleet delivery will occur by the end of 2027, with final deliveries expected in 2028.
The order includes 12 intercity trains for the Athens-Thessaloniki route, each carrying 335 passengers, and 11 suburban trains with a capacity of 362 passengers. Design upgrades include large windows, adjustable LED lighting, enhanced soundproofing, and spaces for bicycles, strollers, and luggage. The trains will reach 160 km/h with the potential for higher speeds, and they will feature ETCS Level 2, a state-of-the-art European signaling system that increases both safety and network capacity.
Zilaskopoulos noted that ETCS Level 2 will allow up to 90 daily trains on the Athens-Thessaloniki axis. Hellenic Train carried 14 million passengers last year, mostly on suburban routes. The company aims to capture up to 70% of travel on the main axis by reducing journey times to 3.5 hours and increasing frequency from 2 to 8–12 daily pairs of trains. The company emphasized that regular infrastructure maintenance remains a critical factor in achieving these targets.
Hellenic Train also noted ongoing discussions with the infrastructure manager regarding track usage fees, although differences remain.
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