If You’ve Implemented Level 2, Why Should You Still Attend?

If you have successfully implemented ETCS Level 2 on one of your routes, why should you attend this event?

Clearly, there will be many operators at the conference eager to hear about your practical experiences of implementing level 2. However, after conducting extensive research, we are convinced that there are compelling reasons why operators who have already implemented ETCS Level 2 should also attend.

A significant aspect of operational readiness is phase transition. From speaking with many of you who have already deployed ETCS Level 2, it is clear that one of the emerging hot topics—in addition to the introduction of FRMCS—is the consideration of Hybrid Level 3.

Some operators are now evaluating Hybrid Level 3 to address compatibility, operational flexibility, and standardisation challenges. Retaining some trackside detection systems in a hybrid framework offers greater flexibility during the transition, accommodating both ETCS-equipped and non-equipped trains.

With this in mind, there is much to learn for operators at your stage regarding new technologies and ETCS framework upgrades that can help optimise existing systems. While this event will cover driver training for Level 2, simulation processes, and operational readiness, we recognise that many of these issues—although calibrated differently—still apply to your operations. All railway companies are still undergoing some form of transition and adaptation.

We are confident that you will benefit from these operator-led discussions, which go beyond Level 2 implementation to explore:

• The Future of Rail Telecommunications – How FRMCS will serve as an enabler for ETCS Level 3
• ETCS Level 3 & Hybrid Level 3 from an Operator Perspective – How FRMCS integrates with Level 3 and whether a hybrid approach offers a practical      transition strategy
• Standardisation and Technical Interoperability – Addressing ongoing challenges in mixed traffic and cross-border operations

While your insights on ETCS Level 2 implementation will undoubtedly be valuable during networking discussions, we believe there is still substantial knowledge to gain—particularly regarding interoperability improvements between passenger and freight operations, as well as between operators and infrastructure managers within future ETCS Level 3 networks.

On Day Two, several sessions will focus on:

• Data Standardisation for ETCS Level 3, including hybrid variations
• The Role of Traffic Management Systems in supporting the transition
• Ensuring Consistency in Operational Rules & Data Exchange – A crucial factor for successful ETCS Level 3 integration

Regardless of whether you are considering Hybrid Level 3 or a full transition to Level 3, the success of these frameworks will depend on operators aligning data exchange, operational rules, and traffic management processes. The discussions on mixed traffic integration, freight and passenger coordination, and cross-border interoperability will remain highly relevant for operators navigating increasing layers of operational complexity.

 This industry is evolving rapidly, and now is the time to assess whether ETCS Level 3—or its hybrid variant—can truly deliver capacity increases without major additional infrastructure investment.

At this event, you will:

✔ Gain clarity on FRMCS and its role in the transition to Level 3

✔ Understand how standardisation efforts will shape cross-border and mixed traffic operations

✔ Assess whether the capacity benefits of Level 3 justify the financial investment

✔ Hear from early adopters about the real-world challenges in building the business case for a moving-block system or hybrid transition

For operators who have completed—or are nearing completion of—ETCS Level 2, this event provides a critical opportunity to evaluate the next strategic steps and determine whether Level 3 is the right investment for your network.