The Koralmbahn reduces travel time on the southern route – passenger rights remain unchanged

Over the weekend, a once-in-a-century construction project, the Koralm Railway and Koralm Tunnel, was officially opened. After the first historic passenger train journey through the 33 km long tunnel on the route between Graz and Klagenfurt, regular service will begin this weekend with travel times of only 41 minutes between the provincial capitals. This represents a milestone for mobility, climate protection, regional development, and competition in rail transport.

With more than 10,000 passengers expected on the opening weekend and more commuters and travelers between Styria, Carinthia, and beyond in the future, passenger rights are also in focus: What happens if trains are delayed, canceled, or overcrowded? The Agency for Passenger Rights APF) provides clarification.

Rights in case of delays and train cancellations

Thanks to EU-wide passenger rights and supplementary regulations in Austria, rail passengers have clear entitlements in the event of delays and train cancellations:

• For delays of 60 minutes or more: entitlement to 25% of the ticket price as compensation
• For delays of 120 minutes or more: 50% of the ticket price

This compensation can be submitted directly to the railway company (ÖBB PV or Westbahn from March 2026) using an online form.

Train cancellation and alternative transportation

If the train is canceled, passengers are entitled to a ticket refund, free travel on the next train, or alternative transportation under comparable conditions at no additional cost. A taxi ride between Graz and Klagenfurt is permitted in the event of a cancellation on the Koralmbahn if it was the last train connection of the day. If no alternative transport is organized, hotel accommodation can also be claimed. However, before booking accommodation or a taxi yourself, it is essential to contact the railway company.

Support while waiting

If it is clear that a delay will be prolonged, rail companies must provide adequate assistance, such as meals and refreshments, if these are available on the train or at the station.

Overcrowded trains & safety – what are the rules?

Even if a train is very crowded due to high demand, such as on the opening weekend of the Koralmbahn, clear rules apply:

• Passengers must always follow the instructions of the cabin crew—safety comes first.
• If, for safety or capacity reasons, a train cannot accommodate all passengers waiting to board, alternative transportation must be offered, either on the next train or via other means of transport.
• In such cases, passenger rights in the event of train cancellations or delays also apply. On busy travel days, the apf recommends reserving a seat and documenting overcrowding or non-acceptance.

What to do if you encounter problems? APF provides free assistance.

The APF provides free and independent support to passengers in enforcing their rights, for example if:

• Compensation claims rejected by the railway company
• Insufficient assistance in the event of train cancellations and delays
• Legitimate claims are not being met
• Problems with reimbursements occur

Affected passengers who have been unable to reach an agreement with the rail company can contact the APF directly—by phone or using the online form.

With the launch of the Koralmbahn railway, a significant increase in passengers is expected in long-distance and regional transport. The APF therefore recommends:

• Keep tickets and booking confirmations in a safe place.
• Keep receipts for expenses incurred (snacks, drinks, hotel).
• Submit compensation or reimbursement claims directly to the railway company as soon as the journey is over.