Published on
September 14, 2025
The Ministry of Transport in the Czech Republic has announced the selection of RegioJet for one of the country’s largest public service obligation (PSO) operating contracts. This significant contract covers long-distance regional passenger services, which will operate across five key routes in the northeastern part of Prague (Praha). The deal marks a major shift in the Czech rail industry and is set to enhance regional connectivity significantly.
The contract, worth approximately KC15 billion, is one of the most extensive PSO agreements the Czech Republic has ever seen. It will span a period of 15 years, starting in December 2029, providing RegioJet with a long-term opportunity to improve and expand regional passenger services.
New Routes and Service Enhancements
Under the terms of the new contract, RegioJet will operate a mix of existing and new routes in the Czech Republic. Four of these routes are currently operated by Arriva, while the fifth is a newly introduced service. The routes covered in the agreement are as follows:
R14A: Pardubice – LiberecR14B: Liberec – Ústí nad LabemR21: Praha – Turnov – TanvaldR22: Kolín – Mladá Boleslav – Česká Lípa – RumburkR24: Praha – Mladá Boleslav – Česká Lípa – Rumburk (new service)
The new R24 route will overlap with existing services, adding additional capacity and providing greater frequency for passengers. The total distance covered by the routes is substantial, and the operations are expected to reach a total of 4.5 million train kilometers annually. For these services, RegioJet will receive government support equivalent to KC170 per train kilometer, reflecting a 10-20% increase compared to the current payments made to Arriva.
Future Expansion and Modernization
In addition to the five core routes, the contract includes an option to introduce a new service, R29 Kolín – Liberec, which will depend on the planned upgrade of the Mladá Boleslav – Liberec rail line. This potential new service further underscores the Czech government’s commitment to expanding rail connectivity in the region.
Further service improvements are also envisioned, particularly in journey times on the R21 and R24 routes between Lysá nad Labem and Mladá Boleslav. These enhancements are expected to be achieved through the construction of new alignments at Všejany and Bezděčín as part of the broader Praha – Liberec route modernization project. This will allow for faster travel times, improving the overall passenger experience and making these routes more attractive to commuters.
Deployment of New Rolling Stock
One of the most significant aspects of this contract is the requirement for RegioJet to deploy new, state-of-the-art rolling stock. The new trains will be equipped to meet the evolving needs of the Czech rail system and will include both dual-voltage electro-diesel multiple-units and battery-electric units. These new trains will be capable of running at speeds of up to 160 km/h in electric mode and 120 km/h in diesel or battery mode.
The rolling stock will be sourced from the Škoda Group, a prominent Czech manufacturer known for its advanced rail vehicles. These new trains are expected to enhance the overall quality of service, offering passengers a modern and efficient travel experience. Moreover, the contract includes provisions for the transfer of the rolling stock to future operators once the contract term expires, ensuring a sustainable approach to rail service delivery.
A Competitive Tendering Process
RegioJet’s success in securing this high-value contract comes after a competitive bidding process in which the company outbid several prominent players in the Czech transport industry. Other bidders included the Czech national operator ČD, the incumbent operator Arriva, and the private operator Leo Express. RegioJet’s winning bid was not only financially competitive but also highlighted its ability to meet the Czech government’s vision for a more efficient, modern, and customer-focused rail service.
The win marks a significant milestone for RegioJet, which has established itself as a key player in the Czech and broader Central European rail markets. The company has a reputation for offering high-quality services that appeal to both leisure and business travelers, and this contract further solidifies its position in the Czech transport sector.
Boosting Regional Transport and Tourism
The new routes and the enhancements to existing services are expected to have a significant impact on regional transport and tourism in the Czech Republic. With better connections between major cities and towns, more efficient travel options, and a modern fleet of trains, the Czech rail network is poised to become more attractive to both domestic and international tourists.
The Czech Republic is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic towns, and picturesque landscapes. Improved rail connectivity will not only make travel more convenient but will also help boost tourism by providing easier access to popular destinations such as Liberec, Pardubice, Mladá Boleslav, and the renowned Praha. Additionally, the faster and more reliable services could encourage more people to choose rail travel over other modes of transport, benefiting the local economy and reducing road congestion.
Overview: what this means for the future of public transport
RegioJet’s selection for this significant PSO contract is a positive step for the Czech Republic’s transport sector. The improvements in regional rail services, the deployment of new rolling stock, and the focus on modernizing infrastructure will enhance the overall travel experience for passengers. By providing better connectivity between key cities and supporting the growth of sustainable transport, this contract aligns with the Czech government’s broader goals for the future of the country’s rail network.
