Published on
January 12, 2026
In a significant development for international rail travel, a new direct long-distance rail service is set to launch on June 25, 2026, connecting the Polish–Ukrainian border with Germany. The service, operated by the independent rail company Leo Express, is set to enhance cross-border connectivity between Eastern and Western Europe. The service is expected to bolster passenger traffic and provide a reliable alternative to road travel, promoting sustainable transportation options across multiple European countries.
This new route will span over 800 miles, linking Przemyśl, located on the Polish-Ukrainian border, to major European destinations such as Kraków, Prague, and Frankfurt Airport. Tickets for the service are already available, and the launch is expected to meet the growing demand for efficient, cross-regional rail services without relying on taxpayer funding. This project demonstrates the growing potential of commercial rail services in Europe, where demand for long-distance travel continues to rise.
A Collaborative Effort to Expand Europe’s Rail Network
The new rail service, which is being launched without public subsidies, is the result of a negotiated access framework, highlighting the importance of competition and market-driven solutions in rail network expansion. Leo Express, a well-established private operator, will be responsible for running the service under these agreements, which allow for commercial viability and operational flexibility. This marks an important step in Europe’s ongoing rail market reform, showcasing the ability of private operators to contribute to the region’s transport infrastructure.
Nick Brooks, Secretary General of ALLRAIL, emphasized that the introduction of this new service is a success for rail market reform. He stated that commercially viable long-distance rail services, launched without public funding, are exactly what the negotiated access framework aims to achieve. This development is seen as a pivotal moment for the European rail industry, as it signals the growing role of private operators in shaping the continent’s transportation network.
Route Details and Key Destinations
The long-distance service will connect several key cities across Europe, offering direct routes from Przemyśl, a border city in Poland, to Frankfurt Airport in Germany, with stops in Kraków and Prague. The total route will cover over 800 miles, passing through Poland and the Czech Republic, providing travelers with a fast and convenient means of transport between major cities in Eastern and Western Europe.
The new service will be a valuable addition to the existing network of European rail services, connecting important business, tourism, and cultural hubs. Passengers will be able to travel seamlessly across borders, with multiple connections available between major cities such as Kraków, Prague, and Frankfurt. This new route will also provide an essential transportation link for those traveling between Eastern Europe and Germany, improving access to key business and tourism destinations.
The Role of Leo Express in Expanding Rail Options
Leo Express, the operator behind this new service, has been at the forefront of providing innovative and customer-focused rail services in Europe. With a reputation for offering high-quality travel experiences, Leo Express aims to set new standards for long-distance rail travel in the region. The company’s involvement in this new cross-border rail route will provide a more reliable and efficient transportation option for passengers traveling between Ukraine, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany.
The introduction of this service marks a significant expansion for Leo Express, further cementing its role as a key player in the European rail market. By operating this new route, Leo Express will help meet the growing demand for cross-border rail travel, providing a sustainable and competitive alternative to other forms of transportation.
Market Demand and Expected Passenger Traffic
The decision to launch this new long-distance rail service comes in response to increasing passenger demand for more efficient and sustainable transportation options across Europe. As public finances continue to face pressure, the ability to develop commercially viable rail services without reliance on public subsidies becomes increasingly important. This new route aims to tap into the rising demand for international rail travel, particularly between Eastern and Western Europe.
According to ALLRAIL, there is a strong market for cross-regional rail services that connect key cities in the EU, with growing interest from both business and leisure travelers. The ability to offer affordable and convenient travel options across multiple countries is expected to drive strong demand for this new rail service. With direct connections to major European cities and Frankfurt Airport, the route is expected to become a popular choice for passengers seeking a more sustainable alternative to air and road travel.
The Future of Commercial Rail Services in Europe
The introduction of this new long-distance rail service represents a shift towards a more sustainable and competitive rail market in Europe. By providing commercially viable options for cross-border travel, private operators such as Leo Express are playing an increasingly important role in the expansion of Europe’s rail network. This new service is just one example of how negotiated access frameworks are enabling the development of new rail services that meet the needs of passengers without placing a burden on public finances.
ALLRAIL has pointed to this development as a model for future cross-border rail services, highlighting the potential for more privately operated routes to emerge across Europe. With a focus on improving capacity utilization, enhancing competition, and increasing access to second-hand rolling stock, Europe’s rail market is expected to continue evolving, offering passengers more choices and better service in the years to come.
Conclusion: A Milestone for European Rail
The launch of this new direct long-distance rail service between Ukraine, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany represents a major milestone for Europe’s rail network. It underscores the growing importance of private operators in meeting the demand for cross-border transportation and the potential for sustainable, market-driven solutions to support the expansion of Europe’s rail infrastructure.
By offering direct connections between major European cities, the new Przemyśl–Frankfurt Airport route will enhance accessibility, reduce travel times, and provide a reliable and eco-friendly option for passengers. As Europe continues to prioritize sustainability and innovation in its transportation network, the success of this new service will likely serve as a blueprint for future rail developments across the continent.
