Leo Express suspends 1,300 km Przemysl-Prague-Frankfurt rail link after two months

Route cancellation after two months

Czech private rail operator Leo Express decided to halt its direct cross-border passenger train connection between Przemysl in Poland, Prague in the Czech Republic, and Frankfurt in Germany. The carrier scheduled the suspension to begin on Monday, October 5, 2026, ceasing operations after slightly more than two months in active service. The international connection had officially begun service on July 31, 2026, creating one of the longest direct passenger railway routes operating within Europe. Covering a total distance of 1,300 km from southeastern Poland across Czech territory to western Germany, the complete one-way rail journey took approximately 20 hours to complete.

Track work on the German rail network

The primary reason for the service suspension stems from ongoing construction works across railway tracks in Germany. These railway works created recurring disruptions to planned journeys, threatening train punctuality and forcing the operator into frequent timetable adjustments and track detours. Company representatives stated that dealing with continuous line closures, altered departure schedules, and routing changes created an unmanageable operational environment for the transport provider. Leo Express spokesperson Emil Sedlarzik stated that the private carrier decided against continuing regular passenger operations on this corridor for the rest of the year.

Operating almost every day according to a different timetable, with traffic interruptions, detours and further detours, is unsustainable. In view of the current situation, we have therefore decided not to continue operating this line this year.

Modernized rolling stock and carriage setup

To operate the 1,300 km international corridor connecting Przemysl and Frankfurt, Leo Express relied primarily on three-carriage train compositions. These train sets were made up of used, modernized rail carriages that the Czech transport company had previously obtained from Deutsche Bahn. One carriage in each three-car set served as a sleeper carriage to accommodate passengers during the 20-hour transit across three countries. Within these train sets, passengers traveling between Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany were able to choose berths in either mixed compartments or compartments designated exclusively for female travelers.

Passenger refunds and future talks with Deutsche Bahn

Passengers who purchased tickets for journeys scheduled after October 5 are set to receive full compensation in line with applicable passenger transport regulations. Speaking on behalf of the carrier, the company spokesperson offered apologies to all affected customers for the difficulties and travel inconveniences caused by the suspension. The future of the route remains unresolved, with the carrier acknowledging that it is not clear when or if the rail service will be restored. The private Czech operator is currently conducting discussions with Deutsche Bahn concerning prospective future timetables. At the time the route was opened in July, Leo Express chief executive officer Peter Koehler explained that establishing routes between western and eastern Europe formed an integral part of the carrier strategy to offer travelers a comfortable and affordable alternative to car or air transport.