An AVE train fire broke out at about 16:05 on October 12, 2026, near Ricla in Zaragoza province, Spain, on a Renfe service from Madrid Puerta de Atocha to Figueres. The fire started in the rear power car of the train carrying 283 passengers. All onboard were evacuated safely with no injuries confirmed by Renfe. Firefighters from the Provincial Council of Zaragoza extinguished the blaze.
Rail Services Suspended, Multiple Operators Disrupted
The fire led to suspension of high-speed rail traffic in both directions between Calatayud and Zaragoza. This section on the Madrid-Barcelona corridor impacted services operated by Renfe, Iryo, and Ouigo. Renfe reported that 33 trains
were affected, delaying or canceling operations for 12,979 passengers. Among these, 18 trains were held at their origin stations, and 14 trains were stopped at intermediate stations along the route.
Inspection and Gradual Resumption of Services
Adif, the railway infrastructure manager, conducted safety inspections on the affected track and began gradual restoration of service after the fire was extinguished. Partial operations resumed late on October 12, with trains running on a single track between Ricla and Plasencia de Jalón. A temporary speed limit of 80 km/h was imposed in the affected section. Renfe reorganized some train schedules by coupling services and adjusting timetables to increase capacity
during repair works.
Passenger Delays and Operator Responses
Passengers experienced overcrowding and long waits, particularly at major stations such as Barcelona Sants. Delays of up to several hours were reported, with some trains running more than two hours late. Renfe authorized free ticket changes and cancellations for travelers impacted by the disruption. Passengers holding tickets with Iryo and Ouigo were advised to consult those operators directly for their refund or rerouting policies. Some passengers near Calatayud were offered road transfer options. Operators cautioned travelers to monitor the status of their services due to ongoing delays and cancellations.
Official Statements and Investigation
Renfe confirmed the evacuation of all 283 passengers
without injuries, though two individuals received medical aid for minor issues during evacuation. The cause of the fire, confirmed to have originated in the rear driving unit, remained under investigation. Adif coordinated infrastructure inspections to ensure safe resumption of high-speed traffic. Firefighters from the Provincial Council of Zaragoza declared the fire extinguished after their intervention near Ricla. Renfe warned that service interruptions might continue for the remainder of October 12, with delays potentially extending beyond that date.
Holiday Travel Context and Passenger Rights
The disruption occurred on Spain’s National Day, October 12, 2026, which coincided with a three-day holiday weekend, increasing passenger volumes on the Madrid-Barcelona
corridor. Under European Union rail passenger rights, travelers facing delays of 60 minutes or more may be eligible for refunds, rerouting, or compensation depending on the circumstances. Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective operators regarding specific policies for ticket changes and refunds.
