"Pricing Families Out" of Train Travel: CDU and SPD Slam Deutsche Bahn
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Train travel is about to get pricier for families, as Deutsche Bahn plans to eliminate their affordable family reservation option. This move is drawing growing outrage from the Union (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), as well as consumer groups and travelers themselves.
The CDU/CSU's parliamentary business manager, Steffen Bilger, told the Bild newspaper, "The rail is risking another reputation hit with the scrapping of the family reservation." He went on to say, "This change hurts those who depend on affordable mobility and can't do without seat reservations. 'Train travel should be family-friendly,' Bilger said. 'To attract more people to the rail, we need to strengthen family-friendly offers, not cut them.'" SPD parliamentary group leader Matthias Miersch expressed similar sentiments, telling the editorial network Germany, "I hope there will still be a change of heart. The rail can't simply afford such price hikes if it wants to be attractive."
Despite the mounting criticism, Deutsche Bahn stays firm on its plans. As of June 15, the family reservation will no longer be available. Previously, families in second class could secure reservations for up to five people for €10.40, while first-class reservations cost €13. With all family members, including children, now required to purchase individual reservations, the cost will climb significantly. For example, a family of four will pay €22 for round-trip reservations, up from the previous €10.40.
In addition to the increase in seat reservation fees, prices will also rise in both classes. Second-class reservations will cost €5.50 (up from €2.20), and first-class reservations will set passengers back €6.90 (up from €4.70). This new pricing scheme has drawn criticism from all corners for making rail travel less affordable for families and eliminating an essential benefit that helped make the railway a family-friendly option.
Sources: ntv.de, ino/dpa
- German Rail
- CDU
- SPD
- Family
- The Community policy by German Rail's decision to eliminate the affordable family reservation option has raised concerns about family-friendly transportation options, a concern shared by the CDU and SPD.
- In light of the rising costs, questions have been raised in policy-and-legislation circles about the impact of vocational training and employment opportunities in the transportation industry, especially considering the financial burden this change will impose on families.
- As the general news debates the affordability of public-transit, there is growing pressure on the political landscape to reconsider the new pricing scheme and prioritize family-focused vocational training in the transportation sector.
- Consumer groups have urged the government to review the community policy, advocating for an accessible vocational training program that addresses the increasing cost of travel, ensuring that the railway remains friendly and affordable for all, including families.
