ERTMS needs to be deployed in a seamlessly interoperable way across Europe

I am pleased to share my interview on ERTMS deployment and related issues published by the European Commission's TEN-T Newsroom. 

In this conversation, I outline my vision for a more connected, resilient, and innovative European rail sector - one that embraces digitalisation, climate adaptation, and seamless cross-border operations. I also reflect on the strategic role of rail in supporting military mobility, completing the TEN-T corridors, and accelerating ERTMS deployment.

Here are some excerpts from this interview:

• "My aim is to facilitate a shift in the public perception on rail by contributing to enhancing its effectiveness and ability to deliver results. I also believe that rail should not be viewed as a competitor to other modes of transportation, instead, we should aim to enhance the optimal role of rail in the transport modal mix, in order to help moving more people and goods on time, with quality, safely and at competitive prices."
• "Rail must have a very high level of safety across the EU and persisting variations of safety performance levels between Member States are a source of concern. ERA can have a very good and constructive role in supporting capacity building. I am committed to strengthening our connection with each Member State by establishing a more responsive and engaged support team."
• "To support rail competitiveness, ERA will continue to push for reducing the costs of railways through a combination of safeguarding stability of specifications over longer cycles, simplification of existing processes and smart uptake of innovation."
• "There is a clear and strong need for a genuine EU cross-border seamless model, which will be beneficial from several perspectives (High-Speed Rail action plan, military mobility, TEN-T, long-distance freight and transport services, etc.)."
• "As the ERTMS system authority, ERA is ready to bring a strong contribution to the efforts made by the EU institutions for making sure ERTMS is deployed in a seamlessly interoperable way across Europe. Accelerating ERTMS deployment at European level will unlock higher capacity and improved safety."
• "It is essential to demonstrate that the rail sector can operate safely, effectively and efficiently. We must showcase what is possible rather than focusing on limitations, adopting a pragmatic approach to deliver a high-quality and competitive model for cross-border freight and passenger movement across Europe. Our goal is not to create luxury products, but to provide a reliable service that meets users’ needs without unnecessary waiting times, delays, or excessive costs."

This article was published as part of the On Track with the Director page, a personal window into the thoughts, insights, and takeaways of Oana Gherghinescu, Executive Director of ERA.