Spain's Public Transport Success: The Power of Affordable Fares

In a significant boost to Spain's mobility and sustainability efforts, the country has seen a remarkable increase in public transport usage, particularly in its bus services. This surge is largely attributed to the implementation of affordable fare schemes, a strategy that is garnering attention globally for its effectiveness.

Increased Ridership and Economic Factors

At the recent Global Mobility Call, industry leaders celebrated the substantial rise in bus ridership across Spain. Víctor López Menéndez, CEO of Alsa Group, highlighted that bus ridership has now surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with double-digit growth observed in urban, interurban, and long-distance routes. This success is in stark contrast to other regions, such as the San Francisco Bay Area, where ridership remains at only 50% of pre-COVID levels, and England, where bus ridership outside London has recovered to about 82% of pre-pandemic levels[1].

Julián Sastre González, President of Instituto de Movilidad, emphasized that economic growth and fare concessions have been pivotal in driving this increase. Lower fares have made public transport more appealing to both new and existing users, encouraging more frequent use without additional cost.

Prioritising Pricing

A key takeaway from the discussions is the critical role of pricing in public transport. A recent study by Alsa revealed that 80% of respondents consider pricing a primary factor when choosing to use public transport. Moreover, 40% indicated they would stop using the services if current discounts were removed. This underscores the risk of discontinuing concession schemes, which could lead to a decline in ridership and an increase in private car usage[1].

Regional Initiatives and Comparisons

The impact of affordable fares is also evident in regional initiatives. In England, for instance, the national £2 fare cap has been instrumental in recovering ridership, especially outside London. However, this cap is set to rise to £3 after December 31, 2024, and is expected to end entirely by the end of 2025. Despite this, some regions like West Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, and Liverpool City Region have committed to extending the £2 fare cap for 2025, demonstrating the importance of local governance in maintaining affordable transport[1].

Lessons for Policymakers

Spain's experience offers valuable lessons for policymakers worldwide. Affordable, integrated, and reliable public transport is not just an environmental or mobility solution but an economic imperative. To ensure lasting impact, governments and operators must continue investing in initiatives that prioritize equitable access to transport.

In Valencia, for example, the introduction of the SUMA card has simplified public transport, offering users a cheaper and more convenient way to travel. The card allows for significant savings compared to one-way tickets and includes benefits such as free travel once a monthly limit is reached[3].

Conclusion

As Spain continues to set a precedent in public transport affordability, it serves as a model for other countries to follow. The emphasis on keeping fares low has not only boosted ridership but also contributed to a more sustainable and economically vibrant society. For expats in Spain, this means enjoying reliable, affordable, and integrated public transport options that enhance their quality of life and contribute to the country's overall mobility success.