Model for Planning and Optimization of Train Crew Rosters for Sustainable Railway Transport

Zdenka Bulková (), Juraj Čamaj and Jozef Gašparík
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Zdenka Bulková: Department of Railway Transport, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Žilina, Univerzitná 8215/1, 010 26 Žilina, Slovakia
Juraj Čamaj: Department of Railway Transport, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Žilina, Univerzitná 8215/1, 010 26 Žilina, Slovakia
Jozef Gašparík: Department of Railway Transport, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Žilina, Univerzitná 8215/1, 010 26 Žilina, Slovakia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 15, 1-33

Abstract: Efficient planning of train crew rosters is a key factor in ensuring operational reliability and promoting long-term sustainability in railway transport, both economically and socially. This article presents a systematic approach to developing a crew rostering model in passenger rail transport, with a focus on the operational setting of the train crew depot in Česká Třebová, a city in the Czech Republic. The seven-step methodology includes identifying available train shifts, defining scheduling constraints, creating roster variants, and calculating personnel and time requirements for each option. The proposed roster reduced staffing needs by two employees, increased the average shift duration to 9 h and 42 min, and decreased non-productive time by 384 h annually. These improvements enhance sustainability by optimizing human resource use, lowering unnecessary energy consumption, and improving employees’ work–life balance. The model also provides a quantitative assessment of operational feasibility and economic efficiency. Compared to existing rosters, the proposed model offers clear advantages and remains applicable even in settings with limited technological support. The findings show that a well-designed rostering system can contribute not only to cost savings and personnel stabilization, but also to broader objectives in sustainable public transport, supporting resilient and resource-efficient rail operations.

Keywords: crew rostering; train crew; sustainable railway transport; optimization; shift schedule (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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