Deutsche Bahn records profit for first time in 7 years
Figures from the first half of 2026 show that Deutsche Bahn has returned to making a profit for the first time in seven years, passenger numbers are also up.
Deutsche Bahn, the national German rail operator, has recorded its first profit in seven years for the first half of 2026, according to figures released. Passenger numbers have also reached their highest since the COVID-19 pandemic, with 960 million people using the company's services between January and June. This represents a 17 million increase compared to the same period in 2025 and exceeds the record set during the pandemic.
The company attributes the profit surge to the rise in fuel prices, which have been driven by the ongoing US-Israeli conflict in Iran. In response to the increased demand for public transportation, Deutsche Bahn has introduced several new initiatives to attract more passengers. These include a 99-euro family ticket, a last-minute ticket deal, the Flexpreis Young for passengers under 27, and a free BahnCard25 for young people.
Among the most popular offerings are the 99-euro family ticket and the last-minute ticket deal, which have proven to be highly sought after. Additionally, around 50,000 young people have availed themselves of the free BahnCard25.
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