Key points:
- Ukrzaliznytsia is expanding its pilot internet project to long-distance trains
- The first train to be fully connected was the Kyiv-Rakhiv route
- Access to the network is provided via Starlink
- If there is demand, the project will be scaled up to other routes
Ukrzaliznytsia has expanded its pilot project for internet access and launched Wi-Fi on long-distance trains. The first route where passengers in all carriages gained access to the network was the Hutsulshchyna train No. 95/96 Kyiv-Rakhiv, which runs in two trainsets.
Read also:
Ukrzaliznytsia changes schedules due to damage on the Fastiv section
In test mode, each passenger has access to 10 minutes of free internet, allowing them to check the quality of the connection or send urgent messages. Full access to high-speed internet during the trip costs 120 hryvnia per day with no traffic restrictions, and the first 5 gigabytes work without speed restrictions. You can pay for the service online with a bank card, as well as through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Communication on the train is provided by Starlink equipment, which has previously been used on selected diplomatic flights and has proven to work reliably in Ukrainian conditions. The Hutsulshchyna carriages were equipped by a partner without any investment from Ukrzaliznytsia. The company notes that if demand remains steady, it plans to scale up internet access to other long-distance trains through an open competition among service providers.
The project is being implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine. Ukrzaliznytsia also reminds that, with the support of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, all 16 Intercity+ trains running across the country are already equipped with high-speed internet.
Read also:
Ukrzaliznytsia launches “Traveller’s Passport” for children
