What is Path Coordination System (PCS)?
The Path Coordination System (PCS) is an international path request coordination system for path applicants, e.g. Railway Undertakings (RUs), Infrastructure Managers (IMs), Allocation Bodies (ABs) and Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs). The internet-based application optimizes international path coordination by ensuring that path requests and offers are harmonized between 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 PCS.
Path Coordination System (PCS) and Timetabling Process
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, 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.
General requirements
- 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 international paths
PCS provides
- Platform for handling harmonised international path requests, path studies, path offers and path allocations – without any paper work
- Quick, secure and easy communication
between all parties (path applicants, IMs/ABs) - Flexible system – updated to fulfill future
requirements of European legislation - International standardisation of the data structure and the availability of international timetable data
