Schnellfahrstrecken

Schnellfahrstrecken are railway lines designed for high-speed operation, primarily to enable faster long-distance passenger travel. In Germany and similar systems, these lines are built to allow speeds well above conventional main lines, with typical sections permitting up to about 300 km/h. They combine dedicated or grade-separated track, straight alignments with generous radii, and electrification suitable for high-speed trains.

Key characteristics include extensive grade separation from other traffic, robust track work to accommodate high speeds, and advanced signaling systems. In Germany, Linienzugbeeinflussung (LZB) has historically been used on many Schnellfahrstrecken, with gradual adoption of ETCS as part of modernization. The goal is to provide reliable, frequent high-speed services while maintaining safety margins at high velocity.

These lines are central to the InterCityExpress (ICE) network and have significantly reduced travel times between major urban centers. The rolling stock typically runs at high speeds on these routes, with timetable planning prioritizing intercity connections and through services. While mainly passenger-focused, some Schnellfahrstrecken can carry limited freight traffic under specific conditions.

Prominent examples in Germany include the Köln–Frankfurt high-speed line, the Hannover–Würzburg line, the Stuttgart–Ulm high-speed line, and the Karlsruhe–Basel line. Together, they form the core of the German high-speed network, tying together key economic regions and supporting international connections into neighboring countries.

Future developments focus on extending high-speed operations, upgrading signaling (notably ETCS), and integrating remaining routes into a cohesive high-speed grid. Considerations include environmental impact, land use, and balancing construction costs with gains in travel time and capacity.