Dropping the Family Perk
Railway abolishes family reservation policy
Berlin - Amidst an ocean of criticism, Deutsche Bahn is unmistakably barreling forward with their plan to scrap the family reservation. "We're done with family reservations as of June 15th," a spokesperson for the company clarified to Deutsche Presse-Agentur. Surprisingly, kiddos under the age of 15 can continue to ride for free when chaperoned.
Tuesday saw the announcement that family reservations would cease to exist from June 15th. The shake-up also includes a 30-cent hike for second-class reservations, now going for 5.50 euros, and a jump to 6.90 euros for first-class seats instead of the previous 6.50 euros.
This transformation in train travel doubles the cost for families with reserved seats. Currently, families or groups of up to five (including kids) can snag second-class family reservations for a mere 10.40 euros. Under the new system, a family reservation sets you back 22 euros for two children, ultimately costing a whopping 44 euros for a round trip.
Politicos Demand a U-Turn
Cries for Deutsche Bahn to reconsider echoed the moment the decision dropped. A barrage of criticism ensued from various entities, such as Greenpeace, the German Social Association, and Pro Bahn passenger association. The spectrum of politicians, spanning from CDU to Die Linke, joined the chorus, urging Bahn to rethink their stance. Critics argue that the company's move inadvertently nudges families toward cars.
Matthias Miersch, SPD parliamentary group leader, furthered his dismay, stating, "I hope they'll change their mind." He expressed his anticipation that the Bahn would reassess their decision, as the company's price increases seem misguided.
Just a few months ago, Bahn received a wave of adverse reactions after announcing the removal of arrival time displays within train stations by December 15th. They backtracked on the move following criticism from social and passenger associations, reversing their decision two days later.
Bahn on a Money-Making Spree
Bahn's strategy behind this change is rooted in its precarious financial situation. The company retains the right for children and teenagers to travel for free, but they claim that their current fiscal woes demand they evaluate the economic feasibility of their offerings.
"We still champion free travel for children and teenagers," the Bahn spokesperson emphasized. "However, given our present predicament, we must ensure that our services remain financially viable."
It remains unclear to what extent these changes will impact Bahn's finances, as they reported an astonishing loss of 1.8 billion euros in 2024. Despite Bahn's efforts to tighten its belt, skeptics question whether this strategy will truly lighten its fiscal burdens amid escalating costs for families and commuters.
- The proposal by Deutsche Bahn to abolish family reservations has stirred controversy within the realm of policy-and-legislation, as politicians from various parties such as CDU and Die Linke, along with associations like Greenpeace and Pro Bahn, have called for a reconsideration of the decision.
- The finance industry closely monitors Deutsche Bahn's efforts to alleviate its financial situation, as the company recently announced a 30-cent increase for second-class reservations and a 40-cent hike for first-class seats, while preserving free travel for kids under 15.
- The business community is keeping a close eye on Deutsche Bahn's latest moves, with analysts questioning whether the toll on families and commuters through price hikes will ultimately prove beneficial for the company's overall financial health, especially in light of the company's significant losses reported in 2024.
