Analýza podnikatelských příležitostí na trhu s osobní železniční dopravou

European Commission sees further development of rail passenger transport as one of the main pillars for maintaining and further strengthening of competitiveness of Europe. With rail passenger transport, as a growth industry that connects all the other sectors, we can count on further economic development in future while preserving diversity and beauty of European fauna and flora as well as growth in living standards. It was found that the trends in the use of railways in the Czech Republic and advanced European countries are different. The paper assumes that the role of rail passenger transport in the Czech Republic will strengthen in accordance with trends in western countries. The paper analyses the Czech rail passenger transport market. The Prague -- České Budějovice route has been identified as the most suitable for entry of a new private operator. There are strong streams of passengers. After completion of the railway corridor the route will offer extension of activities onto the Austrian market. The paper analyses the competitive environment. The main competitors are RegioJet and LEO Express. The operator can compete using low-cost concept, especially EMU trains. High quality of offered services will also play an important role. Leasing was identified as the most convenient financial instrument. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are summarized in the SWOT analysis.