Berlin, March 10, 2025 – The Europe Today: German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) announced on Sunday that it had paid nearly €197 million ($214 million) in customer compensation for train delays and cancellations in 2024. The payout follows a year of severe punctuality issues, with DB experiencing its worst performance in over two decades.
According to DB, more than a third of its long-distance trains failed to arrive on time last year. The company defines a train as delayed if it arrives more than 5 minutes and 59 seconds after its scheduled time. In 2024, 37.5% of DB’s long-distance services were delayed, marking the lowest punctuality rate in at least 21 years.
Rising Compensation Claims Due to Delays
Nearly 7 million passengers submitted compensation claims due to train delays in 2024, up from 5.6 million claims the previous year. In 2023, DB paid out approximately €132.8 million in compensation.
“If a train has been delayed, and our passengers are entitled to compensation, we pay this out without argument. And long delays lead to high compensation payments,” a DB spokesman told the German newspaper Bild.
Germany’s railway system has faced increasing criticism as passengers contend with overcrowded trains, frequent delays, and cancellations.
Infrastructure Challenges and Future Improvements
DB attributes 80% of delays in 2024 to aging and overloaded infrastructure, particularly in major transport hubs. Regular track closures for maintenance and repair work have further exacerbated disruptions.
To address these challenges, DB has set an ambitious target to improve punctuality, aiming for 75% to 80% on-time arrivals for long-distance trains by the end of 2027. The company also plans major renovations on 41 high-traffic rail corridors by 2030 as part of its long-term infrastructure strategy.
Additionally, DB has cited staffing shortages as a contributing factor, stating that a “tight labor market” has made it difficult to meet personnel requirements.
As Germany’s rail passengers continue to grapple with service disruptions, DB’s efforts to modernize its network and improve efficiency will be closely watched in the coming years.
