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Give me S5: The line concept on the S7

By splitting the S7, the S5 returns – for better quality across all routes.

Detailed Line Concept

  • The S5 is back: It operates between Kreuzstraße and Pasing. During peak hours, the S5 continues to Germering-Unterpfaffenhofen (occasionally to Weßling), reinforcing the S8 to provide the usual 10-minute frequency.

  • The S7 route: The S7 operates above ground from/to Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), platforms 27–36, and does not stop at Hackerbrücke. A cross-platform transfer to other S-Bahn lines is conveniently possible at Donnersbergerbrücke.

  • U-Bahn Connections: Additionally, the S7 is perfectly connected to the U-Bahn at the stations Siemenswerke/Obersendling (U3), Harras (U6), and Heimeranplatz (U4/U5).

  • System Benefits: All lines benefit because the new concept relieves the core route (Stammstrecke) during peak times. Furthermore, Pasing is better connected with a fifth line.

MVV Network Map M-5

Includes S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines, S5/S7 routing, and the network expansion to Weilheim and Landsberg am Lech.

The Background

  • DB and the Free State of Bavaria aim to make the predominantly single-track lines more punctual with this new concept.

  • Core Route Relief: The measure relieves the eastern core route section by three trains per hour and direction during peak times. This makes the entire S-Bahn system more robust, benefiting all lines.

  • Expansion in the West: Simultaneously, more trains run on the western core route section than before. This especially benefits the Pasing hub in the rapidly growing west of Munich.

  • Operational Improvements: Turnaround times are extended in some areas, and more buffer is built into the schedule.

  • Better Comfort on the S7: Passengers will benefit from more seats and larger multi-purpose areas, as the freshly modernized ET 424 series vehicles will operate exclusively on the S7.

  • Changes to the S4: Due to limited track capacity at Central Station, S4 booster trains will now run consistently to Höllriegelskreuth, stopping at several U-Bahn stations (Heimeranplatz, Obersendling/Siemenswerke) for city center connections.

Accessibility

  • Transfer Tip: For travel to/from the core route, we recommend the cross-platform transfer at Donnersbergerbrücke.

  • Central Station: The S7 arrives above ground at Platform 36, facilitating transfers to long-distance trains, buses, and trams at Munich Central Station.

  • Vehicle Types: During a transition period, two types of vehicles with different entry heights of 96 cm (ET 423) and 76 cm (ET 424) will be used.

  • Ramps: To ensure boarding and alighting for wheelchair users at every S7 platform, all vehicles are equipped with a fold-out ramp to bridge the height difference between the train and the platform.

FAQ: Still have questions?

We have the answers!

Erklärung

The S7 has the largest share of single-track sections. Even minor delays quickly affect other trains and cause congestion on the core route. Furthermore, the S7 has the best U-Bahn connections (U3, U4, U5, U6) and offers easy cross-platform transfers at Donnersbergerbrücke.

Erklärung

The color was chosen in coordination with the MVV and the Bavarian Railway Company (BEG), ensuring high visibility and clear distinction from existing line colors across all media (maps, displays, signs).

Erklärung

The last major change occurred in 2009 with the opening of the Hirschgarten station. Since then, the S8 has covered the western route to Herrsching, replacing the former S5 to accommodate the precise timing required for the dense core route schedule.

Erklärung

Other main routes remain unchanged. An exception is the S4/S20 booster trains: as the S7 now uses the above-ground platforms at Central Station, the boosters are routed via the "Sendlinger Spange" towards Höllriegelskreuth to manage track capacity.

Erklärung

On weekdays during peak hours, there are three fewer trains per hour and direction on the eastern section. This leads to a more even utilization of the "main artery" and creates space to compensate for minor delays, making the entire system more stable for passengers on all nine lines.

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