How do I switch off the air conditioning on an Intercity train? | PolishTrains
** Wondering how to switch off the air conditioning on an Intercity train? In modern trainsets, the air conditioning works automatically and cannot be switched off by yourself. The system maintains a constant temperature of between 21 and 23°C and any changes can only be made by the train crew. We explain what to do if the air conditioning works too much or not at all.
At a glance
At a glance
- Air conditioning on Pendolino, Dart and Flirt trains is centrally controlled — passengers cannot switch it off
- The system automatically maintains a temperature of around 21–23°C, adjusting to outside conditions
- Windows on modern Intercity rolling stock are generally sealed and not intended for regular opening
- Passengers should report temperature issues to the train manager or conductor during the journey
- Complaints about faulty air conditioning should include the train number, date, carriage number and time
- UTK indicates that partial ticket refunds may be granted in successful air-conditioning complaints
Air conditioning in Intercity works automatically
On modern Intercity trains - such as the Pesa Dart, Newag Flirt or Pendolino - the air-conditioning system is fully automated and centrally controlled by the train crew. What does this mean? That passengers do not have the option of completely switching off the air conditioning in their compartment or carriage. The system automatically adjusts the temperature to the outside conditions, usually maintaining it at around 21-23°C. The operation of the air-conditioning depends on the outside temperature, the sunshine and the number of passengers in the carriage.
It is worth bearing in mind that in newer air-conditioned cars, the windows are usually kept closed permanently - for safety and to ensure that the system works properly. If a passenger feels uncomfortable in the air - too cool or too warm - the best solution is to report this to the train crew. In most cases, the conductor can ask for the air conditioning system in the respective carriage to be adjusted or inform the technical switchboard that an adjustment is necessary.
Assistance from PKP Intercity staff
PKP Intercity staff are responsible not only for ticket control, but also for ensuring the comfort and safety of passengers. Wondering how to switch off the air conditioning on an Intercity train? If it is working too intensively or not at all, it is worth informing the staff immediately. The train manager is able to contact the driver or the technical team to check the system and, if possible, change the settings.
However, assistance from staff is not limited to air conditioning issues. In the event of any problems - from a faulty socket to lost luggage - passengers can turn to the staff, who are always located in a designated service car (the number of which is displayed on information boards on the train). On modern trainsets, such as the Pendolino, communication with staff is even simpler - simply use the paging panel located by the seat or compartment door.
No air conditioning on the train? You can file a complaint!
Travelling in a train without efficient air conditioning - especially in hot weather - is a breach of the carriage standards to which PKP Intercity passengers are entitled. In such a situation, the passenger has the right to lodge a complaint about problems related to the comfort of the journey, demanding compensation.
A person travelling on an EIC or IC category train in which the air conditioning does not work is entitled to a refund worth 25% of the ticket price. A claim can be made at a ticket office or via a form on the carrier's website.
In your complaint , please indicate the train number, the date of your journey and describe the situation in detail, e.g. in which carriage the air conditioning did not work and whether you intervened with the conductor. Each case is considered individually and the response time is up to 30 days from receipt of the complaint.
It is worth knowing that the lack of air conditioning does not constitute grounds for a full refund of the cost of the ticket, provided that the journey was made. A full refund is only due if the passenger cancels before departure or interrupts the journey due to inconvenient conditions. Check also more reliable information on train delay complaints.
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Frequently asked questions
No. Air conditioning on PKP Intercity trains is centrally controlled by the train's system and technical crew. If the carriage feels too cold or too warm, report it to the train manager or conductor.
Not automatically. PKP Intercity handles such complaints on an individual basis, and the Office of Rail Transport (UTK) notes that in some cases a partial ticket refund is granted. Your complaint should describe how long the problem lasted and include the carriage number.
Generally not. On the Pendolino, Dart and Flirt trains windows are not designed for regular opening, as air exchange is handled by the air-conditioning system. Some carriages may have emergency tilt windows.
Note the train number, date, carriage number, your seat and the time you noticed the problem. Photographs or written notes from the journey are also helpful when submitting a complaint.
Report the problem to the train manager or conductor. The service carriage number is displayed on information boards, and on Pendolino trains you can also use the call panel at your seat. If the issue is not resolved, file a complaint after the journey.
No. Air conditioning on PKP Intercity trains is centrally controlled by the train's system and technical crew. If the carriage feels too cold or too warm, report it to the train manager or conductor.
Not automatically. PKP Intercity handles such complaints on an individual basis, and the Office of Rail Transport (UTK) notes that in some cases a partial ticket refund is granted. Your complaint should describe how long the problem lasted and include the carriage number.
Generally not. On the Pendolino, Dart and Flirt trains windows are not designed for regular opening, as air exchange is handled by the air-conditioning system. Some carriages may have emergency tilt windows.
Note the train number, date, carriage number, your seat and the time you noticed the problem. Photographs or written notes from the journey are also helpful when submitting a complaint.
Report the problem to the train manager or conductor. The service carriage number is displayed on information boards, and on Pendolino trains you can also use the call panel at your seat. If the issue is not resolved, file a complaint after the journey.