Rail jets (RJ) are the Austrian contribution to European high speed rail travel. The train’s seven coaches are coupled to class 1116 and 1216 electro locomotives and operated by the Austrian Federal Railway- ÖBB in a push-pull mode on major routes in Austria as well as neighboring countries. 140 mph (230 km/h) top speed enable swift hops on new built lines between major cities in Middle Europe although there are still good chances to enjoy cruising historic tracks at a lower pace across mountain passes in these state of the art train sets. I take the ÖBB RJs on a regular base when traveling between Linz to Vienna (76 minutes for approx. 125mi/200km) and was happy to ride on the Railjet from Graz to Vienna across the famous Semmering mountain line recently.

The picture shows RJ656 ready to depart for Vienna on a Sunday afternoon. The almost monochrome appearance of Graz main station in overcast, fall daylight provides a nice setting for the train in the stylish ÖBB-RJ red livery. At that time the station was not too busy and thanks to the recent upgrades no catenary gear obstructs the few across the tracks between platforms. The trip takes about 2 1/2 hrs for close to 125mi/200km. Still not bad for a journey on a line that has been erected 160 years ago across mountainous terrain.