Dear SBB Community
There has been some feedback that correctly points out that the interchange time for certain connections is (too) short. The reason for this – on the one hand, there is a desire to make journeys as compact as possible, while on the other hand, it’s necessary to provide sufficient time to make the connection.
In our busy network, it’s challenging to meet all wishes and needs at the same time. This is especially true when something doesn’t go according to plan, for instance, if a door stops working or there is a technical problem with the train in front. Also, if it takes too long for all passengers with luggage and bicycles to board and alight or if there are simply too many people on the platforms.
But why can a connecting train not wait?
Although missing a connection is frustrating for all of us – particularly if you’re running late – SBB (and all other railway companies) need to keep the bigger picture in mind. There can be up to 1,000 passengers on one train – and on the connecting train too. So there are reasons why connecting trains cannot always wait.
Avoiding a domino effect – for the sake of timetable stability.
When a train is waiting, the trains travelling behind it on the same track also queue. As a result, those trains that are dependent on the arrival of the waiting train also come to a standstill. So if a train is waiting and the train behind it also arrives late and other trains then also have to wait as a result, hundreds or even thousands of people can quickly be delayed. It’s like a game of dominoes. To avoid this domino effect, it’s better not to keep one train waiting, as this only impacts the passengers on the delayed train. However, thanks to the clock-face schedule, there will often be another connection to your destination within 30 or 60 minutes.
Reasons for a shorter interchange time.
Observing the capacity limits.
In certain stations and on certain routes, there is often only limited capacity, i.e. the tracks. This means that we have no choice but to leave on time. Waiting for a train can result in traffic jams and further delays. We always have to bear in mind that regional trains, long-distance trains, international trains and freight traffic all run on the same tracks.
Complying with safety and operating procedures.
Train movements and platform occupancy are complex processes that must be adhered to for safety reasons. If there are suddenly too many people on the platform due to waiting trains, people can fall over, panic etc., which jeopardises the safety of everyone. This must also be taken into account if you want to keep trains waiting.
What can I do to make my connecting train?
Tips for passengers from our experienced commuters:
Plan your journey well.
Allow more time for critical connections, especially if you’re travelling at peak times, in bad weather or if you have a flight to catch. You can adapt the settings and select a longer interchange time in the timetable search on SBB.ch. This is also possible in the Android version of SBB Mobile and will soon be introduced to the iOS version.
Position yourself strategically on the train.
When you often travel on the same route, you soon learn where to sit in order to take a shorter or less crowded route. For example, in Lucerne, there are often far fewer people at the back in the underpass compared to the front. Or in Bern, alighting via the Welle footbridge is often less crowded. If you have any more tips like this, please share them with us under ‘My travel experiences’.
Travel outside of commuting times.
Maybe working from home means you can travel more flexibly. Or maybe you can often find alternatives when setting off on a day trip.
Check the timetable before your journey.
Make sure you take a look at the timetable before travelling. That way, you’ll know whether everything is running smoothly on your route or if you need to look at alternatives. In many cases, there are several ways to reach your destination.
Save your journey.
You can save journeys in the SBB Mobile app and in the timetable on SBB.ch. This means you’ll receive information about any delays or platform changes before and during the journey – so you’ll be much better prepared. Alternative routes are also often suggested.
View the passenger traffic network map.
Did you know that you can follow the live traffic situation on the passenger traffic network map? Tick ‘Punctuality’ in the settings to see at a glance where there are delays. This means you can plan accordingly.
Speak to our staff.
In the case of delays or if you have any uncertainties, you can speak to our staff. They can often offer you helpful information and support.
Inform our customer service.
If you notice a specific connection where you frequently miss the connecting train, please don’t hesitate to report this to our customer service. This allows the planners to react and optimise.
Conclusion.
Although it’s annoying to miss a connecting train (especially when commuting), there are usually good reasons why trains cannot wait. However, by planning carefully and using all the available sources of information, it is possible to avoid or better manage such situations.
Thank you very much and happy travelling!
SBBCFFFFS