Status: 05/23/2022 2:41 p.m
Starting in June, Deutsche Bahn will increase regional transport services by 250 trips and 60,000 seats per day. It is reacting to the introduction of the nine-euro ticket. The advance sales that have now started triggered a rush of customers.
Deutsche Bahn is expanding capacity in regional transport for the launch of the nine-euro ticket in June. “DB Regio is letting over 50 additional trains roll for the expected increase in the number of passengers from June 1st,” the group said. The vehicles could offer 250 additional trips and 60,000 additional seats per day. The extra trains are to be used primarily along tourist routes. For comparison: According to the company, on average around 7,000 regional trains are on the move nationwide every day.
For nine euros throughout Germany
“We are preparing and are literally moving everything we have – trains, buses, service staff,” said DB regional boss Jörg Sandvoß. Nevertheless, the offer could reach its limits if demand is high. “Above all, the transport of bicycles cannot always be guaranteed, especially since many excursions are decided spontaneously and depend on the weather,” says Sandvoss.
With the ticket, passengers can travel for nine euros in June, July or August for one month on all buses, trams, subways, S-Bahn or local and regional trains throughout Germany – regardless of whether they are operated by Deutsche Bahn or others providers. It cannot be used in long-distance transport with the ICE, Intercity and Eurocity, the trains of the railway competitor Flix and in long-distance buses. In addition, the ticket is only valid for 2nd class.
The monthly card is a political reaction to the sharp increase in energy prices. Last week, the Bundestag and Bundesrat gave the green light despite some criticism.
Over 200,000 tickets sold
According to its own statements, Deutsche Bahn sold more than 200,000 of the nine-euro tickets in the first few hours of the advance sale that started today. “We are currently experiencing historically large access to our sales systems,” Sandvoss continued. He has “no idea” how many passengers will use the offer overall. The DB expects a big rush.
“The 9-euro ticket is a unique opportunity for local public transport and climate protection in Germany,” explained the head of the company’s subsidiary DB Regio. However, even in summer, passengers have to be prepared for numerous construction sites along many routes. Although they are intended to expand capacities in the long term, they will initially slow down traffic.