GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Railway undertaking
A railway undertaking (RU) is the licensed operator responsible for running trains on a rail network—providing freight or passenger services using its own or leased rolling stock.
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Source: https://www.era.europa.eu/content/glossary_en
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Definition & Explanation
A railway undertaking (RU) is the licensed operator responsible for running trains on a rail network—providing freight or passenger services using its own or leased rolling stock. Unlike the infrastructure manager, which owns and maintains the tracks, the railway undertaking is a separate entity focused on train operations. Both public and private companies can hold this status, but all require an operating licence from the competent national regulatory authority. Access to the network is secured through track access agreements with the infrastructure manager, against payment of track access charges. The railway undertaking bears full responsibility for the safety, maintenance, and deployment of its fleet. In European rail freight, RUs frequently act as direct contracting parties for shippers and freight forwarders, and may subcontract traction services to other operators.
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