CFM plans new Strășeni–Sângera rail service as Chișinău–Ungheni train faces possible suspension
The State Enterprise "Moldova Railways" (CFM) has tested a new passenger rail route designed to connect Strășeni, Chișinău, and the capital's suburbs of Revaca and Sângera. This new service could offer residents of these localities a more accessible and comfortable transport alternative for travel to the capital.
The test run occurred on November 13, 2026, using a diesel train modernised by specialists from the Chișinău Depot.
Participants in the test run included Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea—who also serves as Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development—CFM Director General Serghei Cotelnic, and various specialists from the company.
According to CFM, "the new connection aims to provide residents of the localities along the route with an accessible and convenient transport alternative to Chisinau, facilitating daily travel to workplaces, educational institutions, and other points of interest."
Another advantage of the route is the faster access it provides to the "Eugen Doga" Chișinău International Airport.
A road connection between the Revaca station and the airport is expected to reduce travel time and help avoid traffic congestion.
Furthermore, parking facilities will be set up near stations along the route to make it easier to combine private transport with rail travel.
The launch of the new route will, however, entail the removal of the Chișinău–Ungheni diesel train service from the timetable.
Representatives of CFM (Moldova Railways) justify the decision by citing declining passenger numbers on this route and high operating costs.
In this way, the company aims to utilize its available operational resources more efficiently.
We remind you that on October 16, the Moldovan Railway conducted an initial test run on the Chișinău–Revaca–Sângera section to assess the state of the infrastructure and the conditions required for operating passenger train services. The evaluations also examined the feasibility of increasing travel speeds and the preparation of passenger platforms.
This testing took place as part of a pilot project that allows passengers to travel from the Chișinău Railway Station toward the "Eugen Doga" International Airport by train as far as the Revaca station, from where they are transported to the terminal by a complimentary shuttle bus.
The train journey takes approximately 7–10 minutes, while the bus transfer adds another five minutes.
The Revaca station, previously used exclusively for freight transport, has thus returned to passenger service after a four-year hiatus.
