Overview
- Deutsche Bahn said the direct Berlin–Frankfurt–Paris ICE service is not fully available following announcements made on Friday, August 7, 2026.
- The fault is linked to an Alstom-supplied onboard European Train Control System fitted to Siemens-built ICE trains, which is required to run cross-border services safely.
- Passengers can still travel between Paris and Berlin but must change trains in Germany, typically at Frankfurt or Mannheim, and some Berlin stops such as Südkreuz are not being served.
- Deutsche Bahn has demanded that Alstom correct the errors without delay and Alstom says its teams are fully mobilized and working with DB, but no date has been given for full restoration.
- The disruption highlights the technical and contractual risks of integrating different suppliers on cross-border routes and raises concerns about connection reliability and potential reputational and operational fallout.