The full closure will last until June 18 and coincides with the Whitsun (Pfingsten) holiday period. Deutsche Bahn (DB) is carrying out this major infrastructure modernization project to upgrade the command and safety systems at one of Munich’s most critical transport hubs.
Full Suspension Near Ostbahnhof Affects Core S-Bahn Routes
The transition begins overnight from June 6 to 7, when the entire trunk line, especially around Ostbahnhof, will be closed to S-Bahn traffic. Key sections between Pasing and Riem, Giesing, Trudering, and Johanneskirchen will be affected. No S-Bahn trains will run through these zones during the shutdown.
To maintain mobility, DB is providing replacement bus services. Buses will operate every 10 minutes between Pasing and Ostbahnhof, with additional routes serving outer lines that are also impacted. DB anticipates that no trains will operate around Ostbahnhof from June 7 to 13. Lines connecting Ostbahnhof to Isartor, Giesing, Trudering, and Johanneskirchen are particularly affected. To bridge the gaps, a five-minute interval shuttle bus service will run between Isartor and Ostbahnhof.
Revised Train Routes and Schedules During Construction
The construction phase brings sweeping changes to the S-Bahn network. Only lines S2 and S3 will continue operating between Laim and Isartor. All other lines will terminate earlier than usual, such as at Hauptbahnhof or Pasing. There will be no additional trains or the usual 10-minute service frequency, likely increasing congestion on the remaining routes.
DB warns of especially heavy passenger traffic on June 8, the day of the UEFA Nations League final in Munich. Travelers are encouraged to consider alternate options like the U-Bahn, regional trains, or unaffected S-Bahn lines. For airport travel, DB advises using line S1, which will run every 20 minutes with longer trains to accommodate more passengers.
Final Implementation Phase Continues Until June 18
From June 13 to 18, the new electronic interlocking system enters live operation. During this phase, DB specialists will monitor performance closely to ensure smooth and safe functioning. The S-Bahn network will continue to operate at reduced capacity during this period. Lines S1 and S5 will remain diverted and will not use the trunk line, and intermittent service issues may still occur on other routes.
Regular S-Bahn operations are scheduled to resume on June 19.
Short-Term Disruption for Long-Term Network Improvements
Despite the substantial inconvenience for passengers during the holiday period, the new interlocking system represents a vital step in modernizing Munich’s rail infrastructure. DB aims to significantly improve reliability, enable digital control, and streamline operational efficiency across the S-Bahn network. Passengers are advised to check updates regularly and plan alternate travel routes in advance during the construction window.
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