In 2026, there will be no general price increase in public transport. This has been announced by the Alliance SwissPass. This continues the positive trend of recent years, in which demand for public transport, particularly for national transport, has remained stable or even increased.
Alliance SwissPass: closing ranks in public transport
The transport companies of the National Direct Transport (NDV) and the regional fare associations are united in the Alliance SwissPass. The alliance aims to bring the previously separate fare zones closer together. This closer cooperation should not only help to strengthen public transport as a whole, but also to provide customers with a simpler and more transparent fare system. The closing of ranks between the various transport providers is an important step towards securing public transport as an attractive and accessible mode of transport in Switzerland in the long term.
Growing popularity of public transport guarantees stability
The decision by Alliance SwissPass not to raise prices was based on several key factors. Passenger numbers continue to show a positive trend. Despite the ongoing financial pressures on public transport, rising passenger numbers are ensuring stable revenues. This is particularly helped by the successful Halb-fare PLUS and the newly introduced youth range. Both have quickly become very popular with passengers. In addition, the SBB in particular is doing everything it can to ensure that the increase in passenger numbers continues. For example, 100 million will be spent on supersaver tickets by the end of 2026.
In addition, the public sector has decided not to cut subsidies for public transport in 2026. This measure creates additional security for the financial conditions of transport companies and makes it easier for them to avoid a price increase. These positive developments mean that the industry can currently do without a general fare adjustment.
Challenges for public transport remain
Despite this welcome news, the financial situation in public transport remains tense, as the Alliance SwissPass makes clear. Cost increases in operations and infrastructure investments, as well as ongoing construction projects in the transportation system, are putting companies under pressure. The decision to keep prices stable nonetheless illustrates the commitment to making public transportation affordable for everyone while maintaining the quality of the service.
The Alliance SwissPass decision only applies to national direct transport services. Regional fare networks still have the option of making their own decisions regarding possible price adjustments for their own products. As such, prices may still change in some regions.
