Despite criticism: the train remains: Family reservation is abolished

Despite great criticism of the planned abolition of the family reservation, Deutsche Bahn adheres to its project. « We will no longer offer the family reservation from June 15, » said a group spokeswoman at the request of the German Press Agency. However, it remains that children and adolescents travel free of charge up to and including 14 years.

It became known on Tuesday that the family reservation from this Sunday ceased. Then all travelers – including children – have to pay for a seat reservation. In addition, the price for a reservation in second class increases by 30 cents and is then 5.50 euros. In the first class, the fixed place then costs 6.90 euros instead of 6.50 euros.

For families, train travels with reserved places make it significantly more expensive. Instead of the 10.40 euros for a family reservation in the second class, two children will be 22 euros in the future. 44 euros come together for back and forth.

Politicians from CDU to the left demand to rethink

Calls were immediately loud that the train should undo the step. There were criticism of the plans, among others, from Greenpeace, the Social Association of Germany and the Pro Bahn passenger association. But also politicians from CDUSPD, the Greens and Leftists called for a rethink of the train. Among other things, the accusation was that the railway drives families into the car. A family reservation for 10.40 euros has so far been possible for up to five people.

Just a few months ago, an announcement of the railway had triggered violent criticism. It became known in November that the notices of the arrival plans should be lost in the train stations from December 15th. The step was primarily justified by the fact that travelers needed information in real time. After criticism of social and passenger associations, the train steered two days later. Take the criticism of the public and associations seriously, ”it said.

Train wants to “make offers economically portable”

The reasons for the abolition of family reservations are others. The group writes deep red numbers, with the S3 renovation program, among other things, the finances are to be brought back to shape.

« We want to continue to offer children and adolescents with them free of charge, » said the rail spokeswoman. « But it is also clear: in view of the tense economic situation in which we are currently located, we have to make our offers economically portable. »

However, the effect on finances due to the loss of the family reservation should be limited. In 2024, the bottom line made a minus of 1.8 billion euros.