Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger (CDU) suggested that access controls at major German railway stations could be a necessary development. Speaking to the Funke-Mediengruppe, Bilger noted that it might be advisable to link stairwell and platform access in long-distance transport more strictly to the presence of a valid ticket. Although he acknowledged that this system could not be directly replicated in Germany due to the country’s historically evolved station layouts, he viewed the approach as sound and sees potential for its practical development and pilot testing within Germany.
He pointed out that similar access controls are already common in several European countries. In France, the national rail company SNCF now utilizes access gates at around 20 stations, requiring travelers with valid tickets to reach the platforms. This includes major hubs in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Lille, Rennes, and Nantes, where the ticket is electronically verified before granting platform access. Likewise, in Great Britain, National Rail requires passengers to pass through ticket gates at many stations to access the platforms, and at some larger stations, platform access is only granted when the train is ready for boarding.
Bilger also highlighted the escalating dangers facing transport infrastructure generally. He stated that there are numerous instances where infrastructure-including rail lines, energy supplies, waterways, and air transport-is being attacked, calling this a “new reality” that necessitates high awareness. He emphasized that defensive measures must be improved in sensitive areas, and swift responses must be possible following any incident. Furthermore, he noted that digitalization could assist in detecting problems earlier.
Turning specifically to drone incidents at airports, Bilger announced plans to accelerate the equipping of international airports with drone detection technology. The Federal Air Traffic Control has been tasked by the ministry with acquiring this equipment. However, he cautioned that not every drone sighting is intentional. During a visit to Frankfurt Airport, he was informed of an incident where a children’s birthday party was filmed right next to the airport. While earlier such alarms would have halted flight operations, Bilger explained that the current approach is to first clarify the situation quickly. Simultaneously, he stressed that private drone pilots must remain clear that dangerously interfering with air traffic is a criminal offense.
