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. Acting on behalf of the State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Transport and Technology, the BEG plans, finances, and oversees local rail passenger transport (SPNV) in Bavaria.
What does the BEG do?
The key responsibilities of the BEG include the design and improvement of timetables, as well as quality assurance within Bavaria’s local rail passenger transport (SPNV). In addition, the BEG tenders transport services for which various railway companies submit their proposals. The bid offering the best combination of price and quality is awarded the contract and appointed as the operator. We, as Die Länderbahn GmbH DLB, operate daily rail services with our products as the contracted operator. We provide rolling stock and personnel and ensure punctuality, cleanliness, and customer service.
What does “on behalf of the BEG” mean?
Like all railway undertakings in Bavarian local rail passenger transport, 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 in accordance with these specifications and contribute our expertise to their implementation. For day‑to‑day operations, however, we as Die Länderbahn GmbH DLB — with our Bavarian product brands alex, oberpfalzbahn, and waldbahn — are independently responsible.
Who determines when and how often the trains run, and how many seats are available?
The Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (BEG) is responsible for planning, organizing, and financing local rail passenger transport (SPNV) in Bavaria. Since these are public transport services, they are put out to tender, and the most economically advantageous bid is awarded the contract. These tendering procedures generally take place three to five years in advance, as the procurement of rolling stock requires corresponding lead time. The tender documents specify detailed minimum requirements, such as the number of train services to be operated, the number of seats per service, specific comfort features of the trains, and much more. Die Länderbahn GmbH DLB consistently implements these BEG requirements, including the timetable and the number of seats offered.