Italy's state railway, Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), renowned for its high-speed Frecciarossa trains, is set to expand its operations into Germany. Initially focusing on regional and freight transport, FS is also considering future intercity services. The Frecciarossa trains, which have significantly shortened travel times across Italy since their debut in 2008, have been pivotal in connecting major cities efficiently and punctually.
Building on their success in Italy, FS aims to replicate this achievement abroad. The railway operator is working towards operating its Frecciarossa trains between Milan and Munich, and eventually to Berlin, pending approval. Currently holding a strong position in German regional transport through Netinera and freight transport via TX Logistik, FS plans to strengthen and expand these operations.
Since their introduction, the Frecciarossa trains have drastically improved travel times within Italy, such as the three-hour journey from Milan to Rome. FS's high-speed services have already expanded into Spain and France, and the company now seeks to establish similar success in Germany. Palasciano Villamagna, FS's Chief International Officer, expects their trains to start running from Milan to Munich by 2026, with travel times eventually reduced further after the completion of the Brenner Base Tunnel.
Although Germany presents challenges due to its infrastructure and lack of extensive high-speed rail, FS remains committed to its expansion plans. Transport economist Andrea Giuricin from Bicocca University in Milan notes that gaining a foothold in Germany will be complex, but FS’s strategy includes potential intercity services and leveraging its strong regional and freight transport presence.
FS operates numerous regional brands in Germany and aims to enhance its network capacity and efficiency. Germany, considered a crucial market, generates significant revenue for FS and employs thousands. FS’s success in competitive markets like Spain and its experience in high-speed rail make it well-positioned to tackle the German market. The company's long-term vision includes expanding connections to other major European cities, emphasising sustainability and the importance of rail in reducing carbon emissions.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's plans to partially privatise the state railway further underscore FS's ambitions to double its international revenue by 2030 and invest significantly in both domestic and international markets. As competition heats up with other European railway operators like SNCF entering the Italian high-speed market, FS's experience and strategic expansions position it as a key player in the evolving landscape of European rail transport.
