Italy’s Palermo-Catania Rail: Boosting Sicily’s Transport & Freight

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Introduction

Webuild inaugurated the first completed 38-kilometre section of the Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway, the Bicocca–Catenanuova section, on 29 October 2025. This project, part of the wider TEN-T Scandinavian–Mediterranean Corridor, connects Catania Fontanarossa Airport to Catenanuova, marking a significant step toward enhanced transport in Sicily and southern Italy.

Project Inauguration

The inauguration of the Bicocca–Catenanuova section of the Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway occurred on 29 October 2025. The event included the first train journey along the route and was attended by key figures, including Italy’s Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Matteo Salvini (via video link), Sicilian Region President Renato Schifani, and project commissioner Filippo Palazzo.

Infrastructure Details

The project, commissioned by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI), features a fully open-air double-track alignment. This includes two artificial tunnels, 17 viaducts, and eight overpasses. The design eliminates all level crossings to enhance both rail and road safety. Stations along the route, namely Catania Bicocca, Motta Santa Anastasia, Sferro, and Catenanuova, have been upgraded to accommodate the new infrastructure. Commercial service is scheduled to commence on 2 November.

Impact and Future Benefits

Upon the completion of the full Palermo–Catania–Messina corridor, travel times between Palermo and Catania are projected to reduce to approximately two hours, representing a one-hour reduction. Trips between Messina and Catania are expected to take 45 minutes, saving about 30 minutes. Furthermore, the line is designed to enhance freight capacity, supporting a more sustainable logistics system for the region.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The construction of the Bicocca–Catenanuova section employed up to 400 workers on-site, supported by over 500 partner companies, thereby boosting the regional economy. Additionally, the excavation work facilitated the large-scale reconstruction of 25 kilometers of underground water pipelines across the Piana di Catania plain. This involved replacing ageing irrigation systems with new corrosion- and impact-resistant pipes, aiming to reduce water loss and improve local infrastructure resilience. The Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway is a key part of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

Conclusion

The inauguration of the Bicocca–Catenanuova section of the Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway represents a milestone in Sicilian transport, with completion expected to reduce travel times and enhance freight capacity. The project, commissioned by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) and supported by EU initiatives, is designed to promote sustainable transport and economic growth in the region.

Company Summary

Webuild: Webuild inaugurated the first completed section of the Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway.

Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI): Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) commissioned the Palermo–Catania high-capacity railway project.

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