plattformslängder

Plattformslängder refer to the physical length of a railway platform, usually measured from the first to the last usable point where passengers can board or alight from a train. The length is an important operational parameter because it determines the maximum train length that can serve a station safely and efficiently. In many countries platform lengths are specified in national railway regulations and may be grouped into categories such as short, medium, long and very long platforms.

The average station used in passenger services across Europe typically has platform lengths of 150 to 200 meters, which comfortably accommodates standard 8‑car commuter trains. In high‑capacity hubs, platforms may extend beyond 300 meters to handle longer intercity or express services. Some countries implement very long platforms, exceeding 400 meters, to enable coupling of multiple trainsets before departure, thereby improving scheduling flexibility. In contrast, in rural or low‑traffic lines platforms can be as short as 50 to 70 meters because short local trains are the primary service.

Design considerations for platform length include the type of rolling stock, maximum expected service level, and the station’s physical environment. Taller train axles, as well as door positions at different carriage ends, affect end‑of‑train safety margins and may require platform extensions or additional safety cues. Many modern railway systems integrate automatic train position detection and platform signage to ensure that services do not overrun the platform boundaries.

Regulatory bodies often set minimum platform lengths for accessibility and safety. For instance, the European Union’s Safety Management Charter recommends that platforms should allow at least 90% of the train to be accessible for passenger movement. Because of this, railway planners frequently recompute platform lengths during major upgrades or when introducing new rolling stock classes.