The challenges posed by climate change and the desired shift in mobility are having a serious impact on the rail system – from urban to international transport. Fortunately, demand for both passenger and freight transport is increasing in many countries. A number of railway networks are already reaching their capacity limits in certain sections, often in major hubs. At the same time, infrastructure restrictions are becoming more common due to outdated facilities and necessary construction work. If there are also restrictions in terms of rolling stock or personnel, it is not surprising that delays in operations are the order of the day.
Currently, many efforts are being made to make rail transport more attractive and resilient. Important topics in this context are digitalisation and artificial intelligence, which will increasingly find application in rail transport in the coming years.
The 5th International Railway Symposium Aachen (IRSA25), which took place on 19–20 November at the Eurogress in Aachen, was the ideal forum for an intensive, international exchange between experts on current issues, challenges and solutions in the field of rail transport. The event covered the entire technical spectrum of the railway system, including infrastructure, operations and vehicle technology.
