Hungarian MÁV launches delay compensation system for train passengers: here’s what to know
From 1 June, Hungary’s national railway company, MÁV, is introducing a new delay compensation system, offering partial refunds to passengers affected by significant train delays. This initiative, announced by Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár as part of a ten-point plan to improve public transportation, aims to enhance passenger rights and service reliability.
MÁV compensation scheme
Under the new scheme, if a MÁV-operated train or bus is delayed by at least 20 minutes, passengers are entitled to a refund of 50% of their ticket price, Economx writes. For monthly pass holders, if their chosen service is delayed by at least 20 minutes on five separate occasions within a month, they will receive a 10% discount on their next monthly county or national pass.
The compensation process is designed to be user-friendly. Passengers who purchase tickets via the MÁV+ mobile application will automatically receive their refund to the bank account linked to the app. Those who buy tickets online, at vending machines, or at ticket offices can claim their compensation at the ticket office nearest to their destination. Importantly, the MÁV+ app’s location tracking feature must be enabled to validate compensation claims for delays exceeding 20 minutes.
Not all services are covered
However, not all MÁV group services are covered. According to Világgazdaság, the compensation does not apply to HÉV suburban rail lines or certain agglomeration bus routes, which, despite being operated by MÁV or Volánbusz, are excluded from the scheme due to their high punctuality rates or contractual arrangements.
According to MÁV’s 2024 report, out of over 1.1 million passenger trains operated last year, approximately 6% experienced delays longer than 20 minutes. The company anticipates that the new compensation system will serve as a performance indicator, with Minister Lázár noting that even if HUF 5-10 billion (EUR 12.4 million-24.7 million) must be refunded annually, the focus will remain on improving service rather than penalising staff.
Read more news about MÁV HERE.
Read also: