International Passenger Locomotives Since 1985

As traditional locomotive haulage declined in the UK and many enthusiast's favourite classes were withdrawn or taken off passenger work, British Rail fans began to broaden their horizons in the 1980s and look at the railway networks of other countries. For many, their first ports of call were the nearer continental European countries, with Germany proving particularly popular as it still featured locomotive haulage over much of its network, even on the smaller branch lines. Ireland also proved popular as their services were almost exclusively loco-hauled. As more enthusiasts travelled abroad & information & number lists became more available, foreign rail holidays became ever more popular, with worldwide favourites inc. the USA, with its long history of diesel traction & iconic locomotives, & India with its extensive system & thousands of locomotives.