DB Regio takes over the south route: New Hansenetz from 2026!

DB Regio takes over the south route: New Hansenetz from 2026!

Göttingen, Deutschland - A new chapter for rail traffic in northern Germany: From June 14, 2026, the Hansenetz will be redistributed. The Bahnblogstelle reports that the DB Regio will take on line Re 2 from Uelzen via Hannover to Göttingen, while Metronom continues to support the most important connections in the north. This blows a fresh wind through the local transport system, which remains in this new constellation by the end of 2033.

The division of the Hansenetz not only brings changes on the rails, but also a realignment of the service. Metronom will continue to serve the routes RE 3 (Hanover - Uelzen - Lüneburg - Hamburg), RE 4 (Hamburg - Bremen), RB 31 (Hamburg - Lüneburg) and RB 41 (Hamburg - Buchholz - Rotenburg/Wümme - Bremen). In the meantime, the LNVG emphasizes that there are no major changes in the timetable for passengers, which is gratifying for commuters and travelers.

background of the contract change

The redesign of the Hansenetz became necessary after Metronom had asked for early termination to be terminated by the end of 2024 due to economic problems. In the past, the operator had to struggle with a lack of train drivers, which restricted the capacities and impaired the reliability of the services. The LNVG managing director Carmen Schwabl pointed out that targeted personnel development is necessary to secure competitiveness.

The new cut should now bring more reliability, and both operators can rely on the proven double-decker trains that remain in the traditional blue-yellow-white paint. For many passengers - especially in the metropolitan region - the familiar color combination will continue to be a sign of familiar mobility.

costs and services in public transport

according to vdv indicates that the number of passengers has been continuously increasing since 2022, which is partly supported by the increasing efforts to provide sustainable traffic. During the day, around 26 million passengers are currently using bus and train in Germany, and around ten million car trips are avoided by public transport every day. This trend could also benefit the new operators who will adapt their services in a growing market.

The changes in the Hansenetz are not only a step in the right direction, but also a signal for passengers that their mobility in northern Germany will remain reliable in the future. While DB Regio and Metronom bring in their respective strengths, it will be interesting to see how the offers will develop by 2033. There is something and the local transport users can look forward to an exciting time!