HAFAS-Algorithm ... and the concept

Today, HAFAS is virtually the only timetable information system used by customers dealing with long-distance travel (state-owned or privatised railways in seven European countries) and by customers dealing with local traffic (approx. 30 transport companies and regional transport networks as well as five German states). HAFAS is currently in use in 16 countries on three continents.

The HAFAS-Algorithm is constantly being redeveloped and refined. Over the years, special technologies have been implemented which enable users not only to find the fastest connections but also more convenient ones, which involve fewer changes, or more cost-efficient connections with a lower fare. The HAFAS-Algorithm integrates the wishes and requests of seven European railways for long-distance travel, and those of a number of transport companies, regional transport networks, and German states for local and regional traffic. The extensive technical development efforts thus benefit all HAFAS-clients. At peak times, the central computer of Deutsche Bahn AG calculates more than 1,600,000 connections per hour with the HAFAS Algorithm.

HAFAS runs on a variety of diverse computer platforms, from TANDEM or IBM mainframe systems to the new Windows CE operating system for handheld and pocket PCs, and also on HP-UX or Linux. HAFAS has been designed as an open system. Although data are supplied via a specific format (ASCII), information is freely accessible. In addition, interfaces exist to all major timetable or duty roster management programs and to print media, which means that a tranfer of third-party data is no problem at all.

If you are interested in a customised version, please feel free to contact us.