German rail operator Deutsche Bahn posted a substantial loss in the first half of 2025 but showed improvement compared to the previous year, dpa has learned, reported dpa.
The state-owned company recorded a net loss of around €760 million after taxes, roughly half the €1.6 billion deficit posted in the same period in 2024.
Revenue rose 3.4% to €13.3 billion. Operating loss before interest and taxes (adjusted EBIT) stood at €239 million. Deutsche Bahn is set to officially release its half-year financial report on Thursday.
The company has struggled not only with punctuality issues but also with poor financial performance. This is compounded by an aging infrastructure that can barely accommodate steadily increasing traffic volumes.
Deutsche Bahn is relying on an extensive restructuring plan addressing infrastructure, operations, and finances, aiming to deliver improvements by the end of 2027. A key element is the comprehensive renovation of about 40 heavily used rail lines.
The next major project starts August 1, when the important Berlin-Hamburg route will close for nine months. Experts view this as a critical test for the renovation strategy, given the route's length and limited alternative options.
A significant improvement in punctuality is unlikely following this overhaul, as further large-scale renovations are still needed, with four scheduled for 2026.
Passenger experience remains a concern. In June, only 57.1% of long-distance trains arrived on time — defined as less than six minutes late — well below Deutsche Bahn's annual target of 65 to 70%.
- Germany
- Rail operator
- Loss
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
