Vorarlberg transit network defends three-zone fare reform

Vorarlberg’s public transport association is defending its new three-zone fare structure despite continued criticism from passengers and politicians, ORF reports.

The Verkehrsverbund Vorarlberg, the region’s public transport association, reduced the number of fare zones for bus and train journeys from almost 100 to three: “Lokal”, “Regio” and “Maximo”.

The reform was intended to replace a complex fare system with a clearer and simpler structure. Marketing consultant Gerd Probst, who advised the association, said fare changes always created winners and losers. Some journeys had become more expensive, he acknowledged, but the association believed the new system offered more advantages overall.

Christian Hillbrand, managing director of the Verkehrsverbund Vorarlberg, said the simplified structure was designed to attract new groups of passengers, particularly people who had previously preferred using cars.

The association said criticism partly reflected how passengers perceived the changes, while the system’s benefits were being accepted more quietly. It also acknowledged that some fares had increased to help ensure the service could be financed.

Annual passes remain the cheapest option for frequent travellers. The association wants to increase annual-pass sales after 92,000 were sold last year.