In the first half of 2026, eight percent of all Deutsche Bahn long-distance trains were canceled in full or on partial sections – the second-highest figure since 2019. At the same time, long-distance punctuality fell to 58.7 percent. The Greens in the Bundestag see the federal government as being responsible.
Quick overview
This report is primarily relevant for rail travelers because it can have concrete impacts on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Deutsche Bahn, long-distance transport, train cancellations, punctuality and the general refurbishment program. The key points are summarized concisely below.
Key points
- 8% of all Deutsche Bahn long-distance trains were canceled in full or on partial sections in the first half of 2026 – three percentage points more than in the same period the previous year.
- Only the peak from the first half of 2024 (12%, due in part to GDL strikes) was higher.
- According to the company, long-distance punctuality stood at just 58.7% in the first half of 2026 (excluding cancellations).
- Greens transport policy spokesperson Matthias Gastel frequently attributes cancellations and delays to vehicle malfunctions and calls for stronger preventive maintenance as well as more reserve trains and staff at hub stations.
- Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla announced at the beginning of July 2026 that the concept of general refurbishments would be reviewed; results are to be presented in the coming weeks.
What this means for travelers
For travelers, it is worth taking a closer look at the time period, route and booking conditions. The key question is whether the report already triggers concrete timetable changes or initially describes a political or strategic development.
Context
The data comes from a response by the Federal Ministry of Transport to a question from the Greens parliamentary group. The background to the debate is the ongoing general refurbishment of more than 40 heavily used routes by 2036, whose effectiveness for punctuality has recently been called into question.
What to watch now
- Only check specific timetable or construction notices once travel dates are set.
- For international trips, allow more generous connection times.
- Monitor the source and operator information in case dates are still provisional.