Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) has launched a major infrastructure project to modernize the regional transport network in southern Graz. Extensive reconstruction work has been underway at the Graz-Feldkirchen Airport stop since the beginning of February 2026, with the aim of transforming the site into a modern, accessible mobility hub by the end of the year.
With an investment of approximately six million euros, the station is undergoing a complete renovation to meet the increasing demands of commuter traffic and connections to international air travel. In addition to the construction of a new pedestrian bridge with elevators, the project includes extending the platforms and improving connections to regional bus services. This project is part of a large-scale modernization initiative by Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), which aims to make the majority of the rail network fully accessible to all customer groups by the end of 2027. During the construction phase, however, passengers should expect temporary service disruptions and replacement bus services.
Technical details and structural innovations
The centerpiece of the construction work is the creation of complete accessibility. For this purpose, a new, enclosed pedestrian bridge will be built over the tracks. This bridge will not only be covered to protect passengers from the elements, but will also feature modern stair towers. In addition, two elevators will be installed for travelers with reduced mobility, heavy luggage, or strollers, providing direct and barrier-free access to the platforms. This measure is particularly important because the station plays a crucial role for air passengers traveling with luggage between the train and the Graz Airport terminal.
Another key aspect of the expansion is the extension of the side platforms. The existing platforms will be extended from their current 190 meters to 220 meters to the north. This measure primarily serves operational optimizations, as it allows for the use of longer trains in local and regional services, which in turn increases capacity on the heavily used line towards Spielfeld-Straß. As part of this work, the platform surfaces will also be completely renovated, and the fixtures and lighting systems will be upgraded to the latest technology. This is intended to significantly improve the overall experience at the station and provide better visibility.
Optimization of the intermodal mobility chain
Beyond the pure rail infrastructure, connections to other modes of transport are also being improved at Graz-Feldkirchen Airport. As part of the project, a new bus stop is being built in the immediate vicinity of the train platform. The aim is to create an efficient link between rail and road, making the mobility hub more attractive for the local population and visitors. By integrating bus services into the station area, transfer distances are significantly reduced, thus shortening overall travel time on public transport.
The strategic importance of this junction stems from the combination of commuter traffic into Graz city center and the specific needs of the adjacent airport. The modernization ensures that the station is equipped to meet the future demands of the Graz metropolitan area. ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) is making a targeted investment in infrastructure quality to guarantee long-term passenger comfort. Construction work is being carried out in a coordinated manner to minimize disruption to ongoing rail services, even though temporary restrictions are unavoidable.
Schedule and operational handling of the construction phases
The project is being implemented with meticulous planning. Following the start of construction in February 2026, the complete installation of all facilities is scheduled for completion by the end of the year. To minimize disruption for daily users, the most intensive work will be scheduled within specific timeframes. Nevertheless, the construction logistics necessitate two two-week closure periods during which regular train service will be suspended. During these periods, a rail replacement bus service will operate between Graz-Puntigam and Kalsdorf stations to maintain connections for passengers.
Particular attention should be paid to the service restrictions in February and March/April. From February 9th to 22nd, 2026, stops at Feldkirchen-Seiersberg and Graz-Feldkirchen Airport will be cancelled during the day between 8:00 a.m. and 20:00 p.m. At night, only one direction of travel will be affected. A similar schedule will be in effect from March 28th to April 10th, 2026. Passengers are advised to check the ÖBB digital information systems in advance for the exact departure times of the replacement buses, as these may differ from the regular train schedules.
Economic dimension and regional impacts
The six million euro investment underscores the importance of the southern rail line for the Styrian economy. Modernizing the station will not only enhance a regional stop but also strengthen Graz Airport's image as an easily accessible destination. A modern rail connection is considered a key location factor for the surrounding industrial companies and service providers in Feldkirchen and Seiersberg. The construction work will also secure jobs in the regional construction industry, as many contracts for the bridge construction and platform renovation will be awarded locally.
With the completion of the work at the end of 2026, the Graz-Feldkirchen Airport stop will set a new standard in Styrian regional transport. The combination of accessibility, modern lighting, and the new connection to bus services makes the location a flagship project for the modernization of existing stops. For ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways), this is another step towards fulfilling its goals of transforming infrastructure for inclusive use. In the long term, the entire region will benefit from efficient and convenient connections to Graz city center and the southern parts of the province.