On 13 March 2025, the future of the Villach-Fürnitz logistics center was among key railway projects discussed during a meeting between ÖBB CEO Andreas Matthä (left on the picture) and Carinthia’s Transport Minister Sebastian Schuschnig in Vienna.
ÖBB, together with Carinthia’s regional government, intends to allocate additional resources to the location due to its proximity to major European transport corridors. Both parties view the location’s geographic position as advantageous for strengthening freight transportation capabilities in southern Austria.
Another topic on the agenda was the forthcoming opening of the Koralmbahn railway, scheduled for December 2025, with potential implications for regional logistics and passenger services. Specifically, the meeting addressed the possibility of establishing an Intercity (IC) stop at Kühnsdorf am Klopeinersee, a matter currently under evaluation by ÖBB for inclusion in future long-distance schedules.
Additionally, noise protection measures for railway freight traffic in populated areas such as Klagenfurt, Villach, and Lake Wörthersee were highlighted. ÖBB and the regional authorities confirmed their intent to collaborate with affected municipalities to address these issues through appropriate measures.
Further discussions also affirmed continued execution of ÖBB’s second infrastructure investment package, totaling approximately €650 million, which incorporates essential railway projects linked to the activation of the Koralmbahn.
The Koralmbahn line, connecting Carinthia with broader Austrian and international railway networks, is expected to influence both passenger and freight rail dynamics throughout the region.
