Night Freight Trains' Locomotive change procedure in Lianokladi, July 2026

🚂 Τhe last mainline appearances of Greece’s historic MLW locomotives! Since reconstruction works began on the main railway line through Thessaly, and with electrification suspended between Lianokladi and Larissa, an impressive locomotive-change operation has been taking place at Lianokladi. Hellenic Train freight services running between the Thriassio freight terminal in Athens and Thessaloniki arrive in Lianokladi with Siemens “Hellas Sprinter” electric locomotives in charge. At Lianokladi, the electric locomotives are uncoupled and replaced by a pair of the legendary MLW diesels, which take charge of the heavy train for the demanding climb through the Othrys mountains and across Thessaly. Meanwhile, Goldair Rail and GFR Hellas continue to operate their freight services with diesel locomotives throughout the entire journey between Athens and Thessaloniki. Heavy container trains, steep gradients and the unmistakable roar of pure diesel power create scenes that may soon disappear forever. This video captures MLW locomotives A455–A470 and A451–A462 during what could be among their final appearances on Greece’s main railway line — and perhaps on the Greek railway network altogether. Once the reconstruction works in Thessaly are completed and electrification is fully restored, these historic locomotives may be withdrawn from regular service. As the MLWs are not expected to be equipped with the onboard ETCS system, they will no longer be permitted to operate on any section of the country’s central PATHE/P railway corridor, which includes the only lines currently carrying regular freight traffic. Any future diesel-hauled freight services on non-electrified routes are therefore expected to be handled exclusively by the ADtranz/Bombardier DE2000 diesel locomotives. The footage has gained even greater historical significance following a serious fire involving MLW A462 on the morning after the night on which this video was recorded. The locomotive suffered considerable damage, while its current condition and chances of returning to service remain unknown. 🎥 Turn up the volume and experience the raw sound, power and atmosphere of the legendary MLWs hauling heavy freight trains through central Greece — in a railway scene that may mark the end of an era. Scenes Filmed and Edited by Alexander Sikalias Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/thehellenict... The Hellenic Trainspotters © 2026