Belgrade–Budapest passenger trains delayed again: December 13 start ruled out

Passenger services on the Budapest–Belgrade high-speed railway have been delayed again, with no confirmed opening date. On November 14, 2026, Serbia’s public broadcaster RTS reported remarks by Hungarian transport official David Vitézi about software defects discovered during testing of the train control system.

What the tests revealed

The Hungarian section has been undergoing intensive checks of safety and train management systems. The Chinese contractor is expected to remedy the software problems. Hungarian railway specialists and independent certification body TÜV are involved in the testing process. Further successful tests and the necessary authorizations are required before passenger operations may begin.

What happened to December 13?

October announcements had named December 13, 2026, the start of the new timetable, as the target for the international service. According to the November 14 RTS report, however, passenger trains on this line will not be included in the timetable taking effect that day. No replacement launch date has been confirmed.

Advice for travellers

Travellers from Belgrade, Novi Sad and Subotica should not plan guaranteed rail connections through Budapest based on superseded launch projections. Check published operator timetables, ticket availability and refund terms before booking international journeys. This update concerns a delayed launch, not the start of operations or the opening of ticket sales.

Source: RTS, November 14, 2026. Serbian SrbijaNews original: Budimpešta–Beograd: početak putničkih vozova odložen.