A fire broke out on an AVE train near Ricla in Zaragoza province on October 12, 2026, at approximately 16:05, impacting high-speed services on the Madrid-Barcelona route. All 283 passengers aboard were evacuated safely with no injuries reported. The incident caused an interruption of rail traffic between Madrid and Barcelona.
Infrastructure response and operational restrictions
Following the fire extinguishing, infrastructure manager Adif inspected the railway and authorized a gradual restoration of services. Train movements are currently operating on a single track between Ricla and Plasencia de Jalón as removal of the affected train and necessary repairs proceed. A temporary speed limit of 80 km/h applies
through this section, further limiting capacity and slowing traffic flow.
Scope of disruption and service adjustments
The disruption has affected 33 trains and an estimated 12,979 passengers, including 18 trains that were unable to depart from origin stations and 14 delayed while stranded at various stations. Renfe reorganized schedules by coupling trains and adjusting timetables to maximize the limited track capacity. Services resumed late on October 12, with most trains held at origin stations expected to be running again by about 23:00.
Passenger impact and operator guidance
Delays continue due to the single-track operation and slower speeds, increasing journey times and causing crowding at stations such as Barcelona Sants. Some trains
departed with delays exceeding two hours. Passengers traveling to or from Madrid or Barcelona who have connecting flights were advised to allow additional time and track updates from their operating company. Renfe offered free ticket changes and refunds for those affected by cancellations or extended delays.
Official statements on the incident and recovery
Adif confirmed that firefighting operations and infrastructure checks were complete, allowing a phased restoration of train traffic. Renfe reported that the fire impacted dozens of trains and nearly 13,000 passengers along one of Spain’s busiest high-speed corridors served by Renfe, Ouigo, and iryo. The affected AVE service had departed Madrid Puerta de Atocha at
14:27 for Figueres on the day of the incident.
Investigation status and ongoing restrictions
The cause of the fire, detected in the train’s rear cab near Ricla, remains unknown and is under investigation by Renfe. As of October 13, 2026, normal two-track operations had not resumed, and no timetable has been established for complete removal of the damaged train or full restoration of unrestricted service along the corridor.
