Network Rail has celebrated the launch of the British rail sector’s first-ever joint AI action plan.
The initiative, which aims to harness artificial intelligence to improve reliability, efficiency and passenger experience, was launched during an event at London’s Science Museum on on Tuesday 28 April, which drew attendance from more than 200 rail leaders and technology experts from across the industry.
The plan was launched during an event at London’s Science Museum on 28 April
© Network Rail
Developed following extensive cross-sector collaboration led by GBRX — the strategic technology body for Britain’s railway — the plan will is intended to aid in the creation of AI-led solutions that will help identify potential faults early on, improve passenger journey planning, support safety and help staff respond more effectively to disruption.
With AI expected to play an increasing role in how the railway operates day to day, the plan focuses on overcoming long-standing barriers around data, governance and skills, progressing the sector beyond isolated pilots to a more coordinated, railway-wide approach enabled by rail reform.
The event at the Science Museum showcased work underway across the industry through the newly established AI Incubator Accelerator (AIIA), including priority pathfinder projects alongside a recently launched AI and machine learning apprenticeship programme.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said:
For more than two centuries, the rail industry has connected communities and driven innovation across Britain. Now, powerful new technology is redefining how we live, work and travel – and our railway must harness its potential.
That’s why the Government published the Transport AI Action Plan last year, to seize the benefits and manage any potential risks of AI.
It’s all part of our plan to modernise track and train under Great British Railways, adopting world-leading technology that increases resilience to improve passenger experience while supporting growth, jobs and homes.