IAF Munster

The International Exhibition for Track Technology (IAF) is recognized as the world’s leading trade fair for track technology and serves as a key meeting point for professionals in track construction, rail infrastructure, and related sectors. The name IAF stands for a highly specialized trade fair format that brings together technical innovation, international networking, and practical exchange. The event takes place at the Messe and Congress Centrum Halle Münsterland in Münster – a modern venue in the heart of Westphalia with excellent transport connections. The fair is held every four years in spring and is organized by VDEI-Service GmbH, a subsidiary of the Association of German Railway Engineers (VDEI).

The IAF is distinguished by its clear focus on track technology. More than 200 international exhibitors and over 15,000 professional visitors showcase and experience the latest developments in areas such as track construction machinery, rail technology, switch systems, superstructure components, surveying and welding technology, maintenance systems, digitalization, safety systems, and recycling solutions. In addition to a spacious indoor and outdoor exhibition area, the fair features live machine demonstrations and a multilingual supporting program in German, English, and French.

Thematically, the IAF addresses key issues reflecting the current challenges of the rail industry: the digitalization and automation of maintenance processes, the promotion of sustainable and CO₂-reducing technologies, the targeted support of young professionals to address the skills shortage – including the presentation of the prestigious VDEI Sponsorship Award – and the development of high-performance, resilient rail infrastructures. With this thematic focus, the IAF delivers vital impulses for future-oriented and environmentally friendly mobility.

As a hub of science and technology, Münster benefits from a strong infrastructure and offers ideal conditions for international industry events at the Halle Münsterland. Travel to the event is convenient by both rail and nearby airports.

The IAF is thus not only a platform for technical innovation and knowledge transfer but also a venue for exchange—where international contacts are forged, developments initiated, and strategic perspectives shaped for the rail infrastructure of tomorrow.

The IAF takes place every four years, and therefore for the thirtieth time previsibly in May 2029 in Munster.