FS Group CEO Chairs European Management Committee Meeting of the UIC

The major challenges facing European rail transport and mobility were the central focus of the European Management Committee (EMC) meeting of the Union Internationale des Chemins de Fer (UIC), chaired for the first time by Stefano Donnarumma, CEO and General Manager of the FS Group.

Held in Berlin on the eve of InnoTrans, the leading international trade fair for transport technology from September 24-27, the meeting brought together key European leaders in the sector. Donnarumma expressed his satisfaction in chairing the first EMC meeting under his leadership at InnoTrans. He highlighted that the committee discussed the primary challenges confronting European rail transport and mobility at large, with an emphasis on ensuring the safety of both passengers and infrastructure, noting that development could not occur without proper safeguards. He added that sustainable economic growth can only be achieved through a balance of economic, financial, social, and environmental sustainability. As part of this commitment, the group aims to shape the future of transportation for a zero-carbon world by enhancing the position of rail transport and reinforcing its pivotal role in sustainable mobility.

During the meeting, several core topics from the 2024-2025 Action Plan were addressed, with a particular focus on Digital Twin technology, the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), and the EU-wide ticketing system.

Digital Twin technology was highlighted as a significant innovation for the industry, providing multiple benefits in terms of efficiency, cost savings, and maintenance support. Recommendations made by the FS-led group of experts were approved, launching an ambitious three-year program to establish governance, develop shared standards, and coordinate efforts with other modes of transport.

The committee also discussed the forthcoming tests for FRMCS technology, part of the Morane 2 program, which will involve collaboration across the railway industry and related ecosystems. This 30-month initiative will test the technology on both conventional and high-speed railway lines. Representatives from the CTO Council and special guests at the meeting presented the progress being made on the transition to FRMCS, ensuring its compatibility with the European Train Control System (ETCS).

The meeting also reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive action plan for the EU-wide ticketing system, known as “Ticketing,” by 2025. The system’s implementation will focus on the efficient distribution of tickets across the European Union. A crucial aspect of this effort is the recognition of OSDM, a support system developed by UIC in collaboration with its members, as an essential element for passengers. This recognition will pave the way for a unified EU-wide ticket sales system tailored to meet the needs of both businesses and customers and accessible to all passenger mobility operators.

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