Fahrwegs

Fahrweg is a term used in railway signaling, primarily in German-speaking networks, to describe the defined safe route that a train is authorized to travel during a single movement. The standard plural in German is Fahrwege, though some texts may use Fahrwegs. The Fahrweg encompasses the track segments, safety devices, and interlocking logic that must be clear for the movement to proceed.

It begins at the starting point, such as a signal or block boundary, and ends at the destination boundary. A Fahrweg includes the necessary elements for safe passage: track sections, switches (Weichen) and their alignment, signals, and level crossings. Interlocking ensures the entire route is secured before clearance is given, so no conflicting movements may occupy any part of the Fahrweg.

Allocation and use: Dispatchers or automatic interlockings assign Fahrwege based on timetable, traffic, and track layout. The system checks the route, locks it to prevent others, and informs the train crew via cab signals or display. When released, indicators show the approved path along the defined route.

Relation to safety and regulation: Fahrwege are central to railway safety, linking signaling, track circuits, and operational procedures. They are governed by national rules and are implemented through electronic interlockings and automated route setting in modern networks.