LNER has completed the first live operation of an Azuma train under European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 supervision on the East Coast Main Line, declaring this “a significant milestone in its journey towards digital signalling”.

The testing took place overnight on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 July, with technicians, engineers and train drivers working together. LNER worked with Network Rail, Agility Trains, Hitachi Rail and LNER test train operator RailAdventure UK to achieve the milestone, which comes two years after Great Northern ran a Class 717 electric multiple unit on the East Coast Main Line.

During the test, the Azuma train travelled between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin. This enabled engineers to observe both the train and the trackside systems, so they can better understand how ETCS Level 2 technology performs in real operating conditions with a train travelling at line speed.

ETCS, which is an Automatic Train Protection system, is a replacement for traditional lineside signals. It uses digital in-cab signalling, which allows the signalling system and trains to communicate continuously, with information being supplied in real time directly to a computer screen in the train driver’s cab. The system will improve reliability and reduce carbon emissions.

LNER recently tested operating an Azuma train via a diversionary route using the Midland Main Line, so thaat services can continue during periods of disruption.

“This is a valuable step forward in getting the LNER Azuma trains and the other Hitachi long distance fleets ready for digital signalling on the East Coast Main Line. With this testing we have now successfully used four different onboard systems on Welwyn to Hitchin.

“Bringing ETCS on to the East Coast Main Line is a huge challenge with a multiplicity of operators, fleets and onboard systems involved. Migrating regular services to ETCS will be a gradual process which we begin this year and step up in 2027. It’s great to see more activity out on the route as work continues across all our partners to deliver the benefits of the next generation railway.”

Chris Hobden, ECDP Programme Director, Network Rail