ÖBB-Infrastruktur will close the Tauern tunnel from 8 February to 9 July 2027 for the second stage of a major modernisation programme on one of Austria’s most important north–south rail corridors.
The closure will allow ÖBB to carry out works inside the tunnel and at several related sites along the Tauern route, a key axis for both passenger and freight traffic through the Alps.
For freight operators, the timing is especially relevant. ÖBB says the closure has been coordinated with planned works by Deutsche Bahn between Rosenheim and Freilassing, allowing impacts on rail freight to be managed more efficiently across the wider corridor.
The main works will focus on the southern section of the Tauern tunnel near Mallnitz, including the refurbishment of the tunnel lining and renewal of railway technical equipment. ÖBB will also use the closure to bundle further works on viaducts, overhead lines, technical systems and track infrastructure along the route.
From an operational point of view, concentrating several construction measures into one closure should reduce repeated disruptions later, but the five-month shutdown will still require careful planning by rail freight customers using Alpine north–south routes.
Night trains will be diverted, while passenger mobility will be maintained through replacement buses and adjusted rail services. The Tauern car shuttle will resume operation on 10 July 2027 and will also undergo modernisation, including digitalised ticketing and self-check-in.
The project is part of ÖBB’s wider effort to keep the Tauern axis safe, reliable and fit for future demand. For the European freight market, it is another reminder that Alpine corridor upgrades are increasingly being planned not only as national infrastructure works, but as cross-border capacity management exercises.
