České dráhy Launches ComfortJet Trains on Prague-Budapest Route

České dráhy (ČD), the Czech national railway operator, is significantly enhancing its international service by deploying state-of-the-art ComfortJet trains on the key Prague – Brno – Bratislava – Budapest route, commencing with its new timetable from the second half of December. This strategic move, unveiled during a special presentation in Bratislava to representatives of ZSSK (Slovakia) and MÁV (Hungary) on December 1, marks a substantial upgrade in passenger comfort and service quality for cross-border travel in Central Europe.

Jiří Ješeta, Member of the Board of Directors and Deputy CEO of České dráhy, emphasized the operator’s commitment to improving travel standards. “We are taking important steps towards significantly improving the quality of travel on our trains to Slovakia and Hungary,” Ješeta stated. “I am delighted that we are able to take delivery of the ComfortJet trains at a rapid pace and that, from the second half of December, we will start running these trains to Bratislava and Budapest. Other trains will be operated with the popular Railjet, which will mean added comfort for passengers.” This rollout signifies a proactive approach to modernizing long-distance rail infrastructure within the region.

The introduction of ComfortJet was met with enthusiasm by international partners. Rastislav Glasa, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director of the Strategy and European Funds Department at ZSSK, highlighted the anticipated benefits for Slovak passengers. “ComfortJet is proof of what modern and comfortable train travel can mean,” Glasa commented. “I am delighted that this train will operate under the ZSSK logo in Slovakia and that our passengers will also be able to enjoy this experience.” ZSSK further indicated plans to introduce similar modern trains on the domestic Košice–Bratislava route, aiming to standardize high comfort levels across its network.

László Reich, Deputy Director for Strategy at MÁV, underscored the enduring relevance of rail transport in Central Europe. “For Czechs, Slovaks, and Hungarians, it is still natural to travel between our countries by train rather than by plane or car,” Reich noted. He highlighted the strong historical ties and the continued intensity of passenger rail traffic, with nearly half a million passengers utilizing joint lines annually. “Passenger rail transport between the three countries remains very intense – almost half a million passengers use the joint lines operated by ČD, ZSSK, and MÁV every year.” Reich described the railway as both a traditional and visionary mode of transport, citing uninterrupted links since the Austro-Hungarian era and its potential to serve as a model for European mobility.

Technical Specifications

• Train Model: ComfortJet
• Number of Cars per Set: 9
• Total Seats: 555
• First Class Seats: 99
• Dining Car Seats: 18
• Train Length: 237 meters
• Maximum Speed: 230 km/h
• Manufacturer Collaboration: Siemens Mobility and Škoda Group
• Technology: Siemens traction technology, Škoda rolling stock design and production.

Industry Context

The deployment of ComfortJet trains by České dráhy represents a significant strategic investment in enhancing the competitive edge of rail travel against other modes of transport for international journeys within Central Europe. By upgrading services on high-demand routes connecting Prague, Bratislava, and Budapest, ČD, in conjunction with its partners ZSSK and MÁV, is directly addressing passenger expectations for modern amenities and comfort. This initiative not only aims to capture a larger share of the regional mobility market but also strengthens the collaborative efforts between national railway operators in the Visegrád Group countries, setting a precedent for coordinated service improvements that could influence broader European rail strategies. The move reinforces the perception of rail as a sustainable, comfortable, and efficient option for intercity and international travel.