Work out passenger capacity of train instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Train capacity is seated capacity plus standing capacity, where standing is free floor area times an assumed density. The density assumption dominates the answer: 3 passengers per square metre is comfortable, 4 is normal peak loading and 6 or more is genuine crush loading.
Train capacity
capacity = cars x seats + cars x standing area x standing density
Rail results are planning estimates only. Verify against the infrastructure manager's rule book, approved braking curves and applicable railway safety regulations.
4 per square metre is the usual planning figure for metro and suburban services. Use 3 for quality-of-service assessment and 6 only for absolute crush.
Because operators publish different density assumptions. Always check which figure a capacity claim is based on before comparing.