Despite Record Construction Sites: Rail Infrastructure Chief Aims for 60% Punctuality - Deutsche Bahn targets 60% punctuality amid massive rail upgrades by 2026
Deutsche Bahn has set a new target for long-distance train punctuality this year. The company aims to raise on-time performance to 60%, up from around 50% in recent months. Philipp Nagl, head of DB Infrago, announced the goal in a recent interview.
The push for better punctuality comes alongside major infrastructure upgrades. Last year, Deutsche Bahn managed around 26,000 construction sites, investing €19 billion in tracks, stations, and overhead lines. Passengers have already noticed improvements in areas where extensive work has been completed.
By 2026, the number of construction sites will rise to about 28,000. Renovations will begin that year on key routes, including Troisdorf-Wiesbaden (starting 10 July), Hamburg-Berlin (until 30 April), and Stuttgart (from January). Twenty-five stations will also receive urgent upgrades as part of a fast-track programme.
Deutsche Bahn plans over 40 major projects by 2036, with 2026 marking a peak in construction activity. Around 1,400 stations will be refurbished during this period. The company expects these efforts to stabilise punctuality by 2026 and create a foundation for further improvements.
The upcoming years will see significant disruption as upgrades continue. However, Deutsche Bahn insists the work is necessary for long-term reliability. If successful, the 60% punctuality target would mark a noticeable improvement for passengers.
