Price Stability Is a Positive Signal

At a special conference on 22 January 2024, the transport ministers of the German states decided to maintain the price of the Deutschland-Ticket, which can be used in all regional and local trains throughout Germany, at 49 euros for 2024. The financing beyond 2024 was also discussed, and solutions are expected to be developed promptly with the federal government. Dr. Anna Straubinger, a researcher in ZEW’s “Environmental and Climate Economics” Unit, explains:

“The Deutschland-Ticket has played a key role in restoring the use of public transport to pre-pandemic levels. Following the uncertainties in the November 2023 negotiations, this decision serves as a clear signal that it will be continued at least in the medium term. This is necessary for more households to change their mobility behaviour. To streamline existing fare and network structures in the long run, a definitive financing solution beyond 2024 is now essential. This is the only way to give operators the much-needed planning certainty. The Deutschland-Ticket is a first step out of the ‘public transport fare maze’. However, for it to be a resounding success, the offer must be made more attractive to occasional users and also in rural areas. Above all, public transport must become more reliable.”