Germany’s Brandleitetunnel to close for three months for modernization

Deutsche Bahn will close the Brandleitetunnel in Thuringia from July 11 for about three months of modernization work, forcing timetable changes and replacement buses on regional rail services through the Thuringian Forest corridor.

The shutdown is intended to improve tunnel safety and communications infrastructure. Reported upgrades include new safety lighting, a renewed emergency-call system and digitized communications technology.

The tunnel lies between Oberhof and Gehlberg and is one of the key rail links through the Thuringian Forest. It is about 3 kilometers long, was opened in 1884 and was last renovated about 20 years ago.

What changes for passengers

The closure will affect DB Regio’s RE 7 Mainfranken-Thüringen-Express and Südthüringen-Bahn services, including RB 44 and RE 50.

Replacement buses are planned between Gräfenroda and Zella-Mehlis. Stops in Dörrberg and Gehlberg are expected to be skipped during the work, with connections adjusted in Gräfenroda.

Timeline

The work is scheduled to begin on July 11, 2026 and is reported to run for roughly three months, with completion expected around October 12, 2026.

Passengers should expect further operational updates as the shutdown begins and the final service pattern is confirmed.