General framework

Train-path prices for 2025

By resolution dated March 22, 2024, the Federal Network Agency approved the fees for the 2025 train-path pricing system (TPS). Due to the merger of DB Netz AG and DB Station&Service AG into DB InfraGO AG, the costs of passenger platforms are included in the minimum access package for train-paths since the 2025 TPS. Taking into account the resulting reduction in the station pricing system, the dynamization is 17.7 % for long-distance rail passenger transport, 16.2 % for rail freight transport and 0.6 % for regional rail passenger transport.

Non-Group and intra-Group TOCs and DB InfraGO AG have filed a lawsuit with the Cologne Administrative Court challenging the setting of fees for regional rail passenger transport. The court has referred the question of the legality of the German regulations on the determination of charges in regional rail passenger transport to the European Court of Justice. The European Court of Justice has announced that its judgment is set to be handed down on March 19, 2026.

Station fees for 2025

On September 6, 2024, the BNetzA issued a resolution approving the 2025 station fees. The BNetzA approved the 2025 station fees with a small number of deductions. Overall, average fee increases of 1.67 % (regional rail passenger transport) and 7.40 % (long-distance rail passenger transport) were approved. DB InfraGO AG has filed an appeal against the BNetzA’s decision to approve the usage fees for passenger stations (fee approval 2025) with reference to the regional rail passenger transport fee cap.