Frequently Asked Questions
Our Mission
The alex safely and comfortably transports thousands of passengers daily across Bavaria – from München via Regensburg to Hof and Prag. But why does it run there at all? We provide an insight into the division of tasks on the rail network.
Contracting Authority
Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG)
Our contracting authority, the Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG), organizes regional rail transport on behalf of the Free State of Bavaria. They plan and finance the train services, award transport contracts, and ensure that quality, punctuality, and service are maintained.
As a railway company, we work closely with the BEG to offer passengers a modern, safe, and customer-oriented rail service. Together, we pursue the goal of shaping mobility in Bavaria sustainably.
Who is the Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG)?
The Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft is a company owned by the Free State of Bavaria. On behalf of the State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Transport, and Technology, the BEG plans, finances, and oversees local passenger rail transport (SPNV) in Bavaria.
What does the BEG do?
The main tasks of the BEG include designing and improving timetables as well as ensuring quality in Bavarian local passenger rail transport (SPNV). It also tenders transport services. Various railway companies submit their bids for these services. The best offer in terms of price and quality is awarded the contract and appointed as the operator. For example, we at Länderbahn operate the daily train services with our products, provide vehicles and staff, and ensure punctuality, cleanliness, and service.
What does “on behalf of the BEG” mean?
Like all railway companies in Bavaria, alex operates on behalf of the Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG). The BEG plans, finances, and oversees local passenger rail transport (SPNV) in the Free State of Bavaria and commissions us to operate certain lines. We implement exactly what is specified in our agreed transport contract.
Who is responsible for the alex?
The alex is part of Die Länderbahn GmbH DLB – more about this here. The BEG acts as our client and is not responsible for the daily operation of the alex.
Who decides on timetables and routes?
The timetables and routes are determined by the BEG. We operate according to these specifications and contribute our experience in their implementation. However, for daily operations, we at Länderbahn with our alex product are independently responsible.
Who decides when and how often the trains run and how many seats are available?
Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG) is responsible for planning, organising and financing local rail passenger transport (SPNV) in Bavaria. As these are public transport services, they are put out to tender. The contract is awarded to the most economical bid. These tenders are usually issued three to five years in advance as it takes time to procure vehicles. The tenders set out detailed minimum requirements, such as the number of trains to be operated, the number of seats per train, certain comfort features of the trains and much more. The alex consistently implements these BEG requirements, including the timetable and the number of seats offered.