en.Wedoany.com Reported - LNER has completed the first real-world operation of an Azuma train under European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 supervision on the East Coast Main Line, marking a significant milestone in the introduction of digital signaling on the route.
The overnight test, conducted between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin on July 15-16, was carried out by engineers, technicians, and drivers from LNER, Network Rail, Hitachi Rail, Agility Trains, and RailAdventure UK. The trial is part of the East Coast Digital Programme, which is deploying next-generation signaling technology on one of the UK's busiest railway corridors.
During the test, the train and trackside systems were assessed under real-world operating conditions at line speed, aiming to verify the performance of ETCS Level 2 and collect operational data ahead of large-scale deployment.
ETCS replaces traditional lineside signals with digital information displayed directly in the driver's cab, enabling continuous communication between the train and signaling equipment, providing real-time movement authorities and operational information while enhancing safety and reliability. The trial also provided train crew and engineers with hands-on experience in operating the technology on a live railway, helping to guide subsequent implementation phases.
Gary Page, LNER's European Rail Traffic Management System Operations Interface Manager, said this is an extremely important milestone for LNER and the wider East Coast Digital Programme. The trial provided valuable first-hand experience of using digital signaling in a real railway environment, yielding important insights into technical performance. Chris Hobden, Network Rail's East Coast Digital Programme Project Director, noted that the successful trial represents another step in preparing the digital signaling system for LNER's Azuma fleet and other Hitachi-operated long-distance trains. The migration to ETCS on the East Coast Main Line will proceed gradually, starting later this year, and will accelerate during 2027 as more operators, fleets, and onboard systems become ready.
Mark Frost, Hitachi Rail's East Coast Fleet Director, said LNER deserves credit for pioneering intercity digital signaling using the Azuma fleet and driving innovation on the East Coast Main Line for the benefit of the entire rail industry. Miguel Frade, Agility Trains' Engineering Director, added that this milestone will support the rollout of ETCS across all 65 of its Class 800 and Class 801 Azuma trains, helping to improve efficiency, capacity, and operational safety. The successful trial marks another step toward a digitally controlled railway capable of improving performance, enhancing reliability, and supporting future capacity growth on the East Coast Main Line.
