Deutsche Bahn: System Error in Compensation After Storm Elli
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DB glitch: Thousands received wrong rejections.
What Happened?
After winter storm Elli (Jan 7-10, 2026), thousands of trains were cancelled. Passengers applied for compensation—and got rejections.
Reason: A technical error in DB's system. Cancelled trains were recorded as "1 minute delayed."
Key Facts
- Technical error in compensation system
- Cancelled trains marked as "1 minute delayed"
- Thousands of passengers received wrong rejections
- DB apologizes, will reprocess claims
- Affects travel from Jan 7-10, 2026
Example: Berlin–Braunschweig
An ICE from Berlin to Braunschweig was completely cancelled. The passenger applied for a refund.
DB's response: "Your train had a 1-minute delay. No entitlement."
Reality: The train didn't run at all.
Why This Matters
Storm Elli caused the worst rail chaos in years. Tens of thousands of travelers were affected. When the compensation system also fails, people lose trust in the railway.
What Does Deutsche Bahn Say?
"Due to a technical error, submissions were not processed correctly. We will reprocess them." The error has been fixed.
What Can Passengers Do?
- Compensation denied? Check if train actually ran
- Save screenshots and photos as proof
- DB will reprocess claims automatically—no action needed
- Problems? Contact Schlichtungsstelle Mobilität (free arbitration)