Overview

• Deutsche Bahn reported a 64% on-time rate for long-distance services in H1 2025, missing its 65–70% punctuality goal.
• Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder described the current performance as “indiskutabel” and signalled a decision on CEO Richard Lutz’s future by July or August.
• The operator attributes roughly 80% of delays to an aging, overloaded rail network and says ongoing renovations and unplanned maintenance have weighed on Q2 punctuality.
• Deutsche Bahn abolished its discounted family seat reservation in mid-June, with CEO Richard Lutz citing economic pressures and rising misuse of the scheme.
• Passenger satisfaction has remained stable and demand for long-distance travel has increased despite persistent reliability challenges.