„Bye-Bye Orders”: European Harmonisation and Digitalisation as Steps Towards Simpler Railway Operations
In European railway operations, operational orders – particularly those exchanged between signallers and train drivers – are a key safety instrument, especially in situations where signalling systems are insufficient or disrupted. Over the decades, however, numerous national procedures have evolved, making cross-border rail operations highly complex and resource-intensive.
With the introduction of the so-called “European Instructions” (EI), a harmonised European-wide standard was established for the first time. Instead of a wide range of national operational orders, nine standardised instructions now apply to operations under the European Train Control System (ETCS). The aim is to simplify procedures, reduce misunderstandings and strengthen interoperability across the European rail network.
However, development continues: the focus is now shifting towards the question of how many of these operational orders will still be necessary in an increasingly digitalised and automated railway system. Initial analyses carried out within the framework of the so-called “System Pillar” of Europe’s Rail indicate that under ETCS Level 2 operation without lineside signals – provided that a stable Radio Block Centre (RBC) connection is available – a considerable proportion of operational orders could potentially become obsolete in the future. Technical solutions and standardised system communication are expected to replace many manual processes going forward.
Another important milestone in this context is the digital order. It replaces time-consuming voice communication with direct and unambiguous transmission. This reduces potential sources of error and accelerates operational processes. Initial applications – including at DB InfraGO – have already demonstrated positive operational experience. Since the start of voluntary nationwide use in mid-December 2025, substantial insights have already been gained at various levels. Currently, the share of digital orders has already reached 35.8 %. Systematic documentation shows that the digital order contributes to greater process stability in operations and demonstrably offers significant potential for improving punctuality.
At the same time, it is becoming clear that the journey towards fully harmonised European railway operations is not yet complete. Alongside technical issues – such as the stability of the radio connection to the RBC – European coordination in particular remains a key challenge.
A recent article published in the trade magazine Der Eisenbahningenieur (04/2026) explores these developments in detail, contextualises the current discussions and provides an outlook on the future optimisation of operational instructions within the European target system SERA (Single European Railway Area).
