The European Commission is inviting proposals for cross-border pilot rail services, as pre-announced in its Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail of December 2021.

European Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean said: “If more people are to choose sustainable modes of transport such as rail, it must become an attractive option for long and cross-border journeys. We need more cross-border rail connections, they must be faster and more affordable. Today, cross-border rail still faces obstacles to the operation and introduction of new services. These pilot projects are part of our strategy to break down these remaining barriers, and I hope that the industry will get on board without delay!”

With this invitation to submit proposals, the Commission encourages railway undertakings, infrastructure managers and competent authorities to propose cross-border pilot services that address obstacles identified in the action plan. The pilots can establish new services or improve existing ones, for instance by making connections faster, more frequent and more affordable.  The Commission will support the projects by facilitating contact between the relevant stakeholders and by providing assistance. Proposals can be submitted as of now until 31 October 2022. The results of the evaluation will be made public by next January.

Source: European Commission