ČD has launched its newest ComfortJet trainsets on international services to Austria (in cooperation with ÖBB). The first regular deployment began on 20 October on the Vindobona service running between Prague, Vienna and Graz. According to ČD, this marks the start of a wider rollout of the fleet on key Central European routes.
"Rail links between the Czech and Austrian capitals are among our most popular international services. Since 2014, when Railjets were introduced, passenger numbers between Vienna and Prague have risen by 40%. Now we are moving to the next stage. ComfortJet trains offer more capacity and the highest onboard standards," said ČD CEO Michal Krapinec.
From 14 December 2025, the operator will expand ComfortJet operations to a longer route via Brno and Vienna all the way to Klagenfurt and Villach. The trains will run three times daily, with a journey time of around 8 hours. On Austria’s new Koralmbahn high-speed line, ComfortJets will operate at up to 230 km/h, passing through the 33-km Koralmtunnel — Europe’s fourth-longest railway tunnel.
ČD plans to deploy ComfortJets as its main fleet for long-distance international services in the coming years. Aside from Austria, the trains are already running to Berlin and will also serve Bratislava, Budapest and, from May 2026, a new direct connection to Copenhagen.
About ČD's ComfortJet:
- Manufacturer: Siemens Mobility & Škoda Group
- Top speed: 230 km/h
- Train length / formation: 9-car push-pull set
- Capacity: 555 seats (incl. 99 in 1st class and 18 in the dining car)
- Key features: Wi-Fi, power sockets, signal-permeable windows, accessible areas, bicycle and pram spaces
- Routes: Prague–Vienna–Graz (from October 2025), Prague–Vienna–Klagenfurt/Villach (from December 2025), further routes to Berlin, Budapest, Bratislava and later Copenhagen
