Train punctuality in Germany has deteriorated, with only 62% of trains running on schedule, compared to 99% in Switzerland. Common delays exceed six minutes, and cancellations are frequent due to strikes and weather conditions. Deutsche Bahn (DB) faced significant financial penalties, paying out nearly $232 million in 2024 compensation. CEO Richard Lutz described the situation as DB's biggest crisis in 30 years, driven by outdated infrastructure. A refurbishment program launched in 2024 was initiated to improve key lines and restore reliable service.
In 2024, Deutsche Bahn (DB) paid passengers almost 200 million ($232 million) in compensation, nearly 70 million more than the previous year.
Deutsche Bahn is undergoing its biggest crisis in 30 years," DB CEO Richard Lutz said in May 2025. "We are a long way from what we set out to do and what our customers expect from us, in key areas."
We cannot ensure stable operations on an outdated infrastructure that is prone to failure," Lutz said.
Germany's track infrastructure program launched in 2024 covers 41 lines, covering 4,200 kilometers, that are essential for a high-performance network.
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