SBB and DB tackle IC delays with new backup serviceJuly 10, 2025From 7 July 2025, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and Deutsche Bahn (DB) will begin operating replacement trains between Schaffhausen and Zürich in response to ongoing punctuality issues affecting InterCity (IC) services on the StuttgartZürich route. The new measure aims to ensure a more reliable service within Switzerland when cross-border trains from Germany are delayed.The StuttgartZürich corridor, which runs via Schaffhausen, has recently suffered from persistent disruptions, with increasing delays and cancellations. Causes include construction work, infrastructure faults, and congestion on the German side of the route. As a result, the reliability of international trains entering Switzerland has significantly declined, impacting passengers travelling domestically within the Swiss network.In response, SBB and DB have jointly agreed to deploy substitute trains to run between Schaffhausen and Zürich whenever IC services from Germany arrive late. These replacement services will be operated by DB rolling stock, with locomotive crews from both DB and SBB.The decision reflects the two operators commitment to providing dependable transport for Swiss passengers, even in the face of cross-border operational challenges. The aim is to preserve consistent travel times within Switzerland, particularly on the heavily used SchaffhausenZürich section, which is a key corridor for commuters and regional travellers.In a joint statement, SBB and DB confirmed that they are working intensively to improve the situation for all passengers and to enhance the quality and reliability of services. The operators will closely monitor the effectiveness of the replacement trains over the coming weeks to assess whether the measure delivers the intended benefits.The cross-border IC route between Stuttgart and Zürich has long been an important link between southern Germany and northern Switzerland. However, increasing rail traffic and infrastructure constraints particularly on the German side have placed strain on the timetable. Efforts to improve punctuality form part of a wider initiative to strengthen international rail connectivity while maintaining high standards for domestic services.This interim solution with substitute trains highlights the complexities of managing transnational rail operations, especially where differing infrastructure conditions and timetabling pressures intersect. Nonetheless, the Swiss and German railways remain committed to collaborative problem-solving in the interest of passengers on both sides of the border.Share on:RECOMMENDED EVENT: