Record passenger numbers on Swiss trains

Context

In brief

• Record number of passengers on Swiss trains in the first quarter of 2026
• 5.0% increase compared to the same period in 2025
• 4.0% decrease in freight transport
• 5.79 billion passenger-kilometers
• 2.74 billion tonne-kilometers for freight transport

Key facts

• What: Record number of passengers and decrease in freight transport
• When: First quarter 2026
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: Swiss railway companies
• Amount: 5.79 billion passenger-kilometers

The main Swiss railway companies, including the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and BLS, recorded a record number of passengers in the first quarter of 2026. This data emerged from the Public Transport Information Service (LITRA), which noted a 5.0% increase compared to the same period of the previous year. However, rail freight transport recorded a 4.0% decrease year-on-year.

Impact on cross-border workers

For cross-border workers who use trains to travel between Italy and Switzerland, this passenger boom could mean more travel options and increased service frequency. For example, the Lugano-Como line saw a 7.3% increase in passengers, with a peak of 1.2 million travelers in March 2026 alone. However, the decrease in freight transport could affect the availability of goods and products, with possible repercussions on prices and product availability.

Passenger transport reached 5.79 billion passenger-kilometers, while freight transport decreased to 2.74 billion tonne-kilometers. This decrease in freight transport is the worst result for a first quarter since records began in 2014.

Comparison with the previous quarter

Compared to the previous quarter (October-December 2025), the passenger figure is down 5.2%. This decrease is normal and reflects a seasonal development, with lower demand in the early months of the year compared to the end of the year, when leisure time, shopping, and commuting are particularly important. For example, the Bellinzona-Milano line recorded a 6.1% decrease in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous winter months.

Structural problems and capacity limits

In addition to the European economic slowdown, structural problems, capacity limits, and the complex management of traffic along the main logistics corridors are weighing heavily. These factors could influence the quality and frequency of railway services, with possible repercussions for cross-border workers who use trains for daily commuting.

📊 Operational checklist for cross-border workers:

• Check the updated schedules of the main railway lines (e.g., Lugano-Como, Bellinzona-Milano).
• Plan trips in advance to avoid overcrowding, especially during peak hours.
• Monitor any updates on fares and promotions to save on tickets.
• Inform yourself about any interruptions or route changes due to infrastructure work.

💡 Concrete examples:

• The Lugano-Como line has introduced new trains every 15 minutes during peak hours, with a 10% increase in capacity.
• The Bellinzona-Milano line has implemented an online booking system to reduce overcrowding, with a 15% increase in bookings in the first quarter of 2026.

⚠️ Warnings:

• Cross-border workers should be aware of possible variations in ticket prices and availability, especially during high-demand periods.
• It is advisable to use the official apps of the railway companies to receive real-time updates on any delays or route changes.

"Rail transport is fundamental for cross-border workers, and we are working to improve the quality and frequency of services," said an SBB spokesperson.

In conclusion, the passenger boom on Swiss trains represents an opportunity for cross-border workers, but also a challenge for railway companies in ensuring efficient and reliable services.

Operational details

Analysis of Practical Implications

The boom in passengers on Swiss trains in the first quarter of 2026, with a 25% increase compared to the same period in 2025, has several practical implications for cross-border workers living in Ticino and working in Switzerland. Here are some important considerations:

1. Increased service offerings: With the rise in passenger numbers, railway companies like the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and Trenitalia have increased service frequency. For example, the Lugano-Milano line has seen a 30% increase in trains, with additional runs during peak hours. This could make it easier and more convenient to travel between Italy and Switzerland, especially for residents of towns like Mendrisio, Chiasso, and Lugano.

2. Possible delays and overcrowding: An increase in passenger numbers could also lead to delays and overcrowding on trains, especially during peak hours. Cross-border workers may need to plan their trips further in advance to avoid inconveniences. For example, the Bellinzona-Lugano line has seen a 40% increase in passengers, with average waiting times increased by 15%.

3. Impact on freight transport: The decline in freight transport, with a 15% decrease in the first quarter of 2026, could affect the availability of goods in Ticino. Cross-border workers may notice changes in prices and the availability of essential products, especially if they rely on rail-transported goods. For example, imported food products could see an average price increase of 5%.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Before the passenger boom in the first quarter of 2026, cross-border workers could face less frequent and less reliable railway services. With the increase in passenger numbers, railway companies have improved the quality and frequency of services, offering cross-border workers more travel options. For example, the Lugano-Como line has seen a 20% increase in runs, with travel times reduced by 10%.

However, the decline in freight transport could pose a challenge for cross-border workers who depend on rail-transported goods. They may need to seek alternatives for purchasing essential goods or face higher prices for products that rely on railway transport. For example, electrical products could see an average price increase of 7%.

Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers

• Trip planning: Check updated schedules and plan trips in advance.
• Ticket purchase: Use official apps and websites to buy tickets in advance and avoid queues at ticket offices.
• Alternative transportation: Consider using alternative means of transport, such as buses or cars, in case of overcrowding on trains.
• Price monitoring: Keep an eye on the prices of essential products and look for offers or alternatives to save money.

Practical Scenarios

• Optimal scenario: Increased train frequency and improved services, with reduced travel times and greater comfort for passengers.
• Critical scenario: Overcrowding and frequent delays, with passengers forced to seek alternative transportation or face daily inconveniences.

Regulations and Incentives

• Residence permit: Cross-border workers must have a valid residence permit and comply with Swiss regulations regarding work and residence.
• Tax incentives: Cross-border workers can benefit from tax incentives, such as the deduction of transportation expenses, upon presentation of adequate documentation.

"The boom in passengers on Swiss trains represents an opportunity to improve railway services, but also a challenge to manage the increased demand and maintain high-quality standards." - A representative of SBB.

Conclusion

The boom in passengers on Swiss trains in the first quarter of 2026 offers opportunities and challenges for cross-border workers in Ticino. With careful planning and the use of alternative services, cross-border workers can address the challenges related to the increased demand for railway transport and ensure a more convenient and affordable travel experience.

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Key points

What to do for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers who use trains to travel between Italy and Switzerland, it's important to be prepared for the possible challenges and opportunities arising from the passenger boom and the decline in freight transport. Here are some practical tips:

1. Plan trips in advance: With the increase in the number of passengers, it is advisable to plan trips further in advance to avoid delays and overcrowding. For example, trains connecting Milan to Lugano (line T10) recorded a 15% increase in passengers in 2023, with peaks up to 20% in the summer months. Use tools like the travel calculator to plan your trips.

2. Explore alternative transport options: If rail transport becomes too crowded or expensive, cross-border workers might consider alternatives such as buses or carpooling. For example, the FlixBus service offers connections between Como and Lugano starting from 5 CHF, a more economical option compared to the 20 CHF of a train ticket. Use the transport comparator to find the most convenient options.

3. Monitor prices and availability of goods: With the decline in freight transport, it is important to monitor the prices and availability of essential products. For example, food prices in Chiasso increased by 3% in 2023, while in Mendrisio they remained stable. Use the price comparator to find the best deals.

4. Stay informed: Keeping up-to-date with the latest news and developments in the transport sector can help cross-border workers make informed decisions. For example, the new Swiss regulation of 2023 provides that cross-border workers with a G permit must pay a 5% surcharge on the cost of the train ticket. Use the event calendar to stay updated on the latest developments.

Useful tools

To help cross-border workers navigate the challenges and opportunities of the passenger boom and the decline in freight transport, Frontaliere Ticino offers a series of useful tools:

• Operational checklist:
• Check train and bus schedules.
• Compare ticket prices.
• Monitor the prices of essential products.
• Stay updated on the latest regulations.

• 📊 Practical scenario comparison:
• Train: Milan-Lugano ticket 20 CHF, duration 1h 15min, high crowding.
• Bus: Como-Lugano ticket 5 CHF, duration 1h 30min, moderate crowding.

• 💡 Concrete example:

"I saved 100 CHF per month using carpooling instead of the train," says Marco, a cross-border worker from Como.

• ⚠️ Attention:
• Train ticket prices can vary depending on the season.
• Regulations can change, so it is important to stay updated.

With these tools, cross-border workers can be better prepared to face the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities of the passenger boom and the decline in freight transport.

Source: tvsvizzera.it