Path Coordination System

What is PCS?

What is the Path Coordination System (PCS)?

The Path Coordination System (PCS) is an international path request coordination system for Path Applicants (Railway Undertakings (RUs) and non-RUs), Infrastructure Managers (IMs,) Allocation Bodies (ABs) and Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs). The internet-based application optimises international path coordination by ensuring that path requests and offers are harmonised by all involved parties. Input for international path requests needs to be placed only once into one system - either into the domestic application or directly into the PCS.

PCS and the Timetabling Process

The PCS provides a single workflow that enables RUs and ABs to use a standard dossier for all types of path requests. According to the submission date of the request and the requested timetable period, the PCS will automatically define whether the request is an ad-hoc path request for the running timetable, a path request placed in time for the next annual timetable, or a request to be treated as a late path request for the next annual timetable. Users can select an (available) process type at the start.

Added Value

  • Harmonisation of international path requests with partners and all involved parties
  • Easy handling of path requests
  • Easy communication
  • Transparency in workflow and processing status
  • Decreased dwell times at the borders for trains on international paths.

The PCS Provides…

  • A platform for handling harmonised international path requests, path studies, path offers and path allocations – without any paperwork
  • Quick, secure and easy communication between all parties (Path Applicants, IMs/ABs, RFCs)
  • Flexible system – updated to fulfil future requirements of European legislation
  • International standardisation of the data structure and availability of international timetable data.

The PCS is Free of Charge

The use of the RNE Path Coordination System (PCS) is free of charge for all RNE Infrastructure Managers and customers licensed on any of their networks. Any other cases fall under different charges. Contact us at support.pcs@rne.eu to learn more.

How to Use the PCS?

Technical documentation of the functionalities of the PCS and the PCS guidelines can be found here.