New airport shuttle from Buda? Expansion of 100E shuttle service proposed

The prospect of a new airport shuttle route from the Buda side of Budapest has sparked significant interest, driven by a proposal from the Urban and Suburban Transit Association (VEKE). While the idea could improve convenience for travellers and boost revenue for the Budapest Transport Center (BKK), city officials remain cautious due to financial and logistical challenges.

Why start in Buda?

According to a Facebook post, VEKE suggests launching the new airport bus route from Móricz Zsigmond körtér, a hub for public transportation on the Buda side. This location is ideal as it has an established bus terminal, allowing for smooth operation and turnarounds. Proposed stops along the route include Petőfi Bridge (Buda side), Boráros Square, Corvin-negyed, and Népliget Metro Station. These stations are strategically chosen to serve densely populated areas and popular transit points.

Photo: BKK

Currently, the 100E bus, which connects Deák Ferenc Square to Liszt Ferenc International Airport, bypasses some potential stops, such as Népliget and Corvin-negyed, due to high passenger volumes. The proposed Buda-originating service would not only address this gap but also cater to the increasing demand for direct airport access on the city’s western side.

Feasibility and frequency

VEKE envisions the new service starting with buses running every 30 minutes, gradually increasing frequency based on demand, Index reports. The operational metrics—distance, travel time, and vehicle turnover—are expected to mirror the successful 100E line. Importantly, this route would complement existing airport services without causing congestion, as there are still available slots between the 10-minute intervals of the 100E buses at the airport.

Photo: FB/BKK

Additionally, VEKE hints at the potential for future routes from other major hubs on the Buda side, such as Széll Kálmán Square, further expanding the network.

A financially sound proposal

One of the standout aspects of the 100E bus service is its profitability. With a ticket price of HUF 2,200 (approximately EUR 5.30), the route generates substantial revenue for the BKK. Even after accounting for airport fees (roughly HUF 500 [EUR 1.20] per passenger) and additional staffing costs, the service brings in HUF hundreds of millions annually. The new route from Buda is expected to replicate this financial success, offering a win-win for passengers and the transport authority alike.

However, the Budapest City Council is considering a proposal to allow travellers with valid national or Budapest public transport passes to ride the 100E bus for an additional HUF 450 (EUR 1.10). While this move could make the service more accessible, VEKE warns it might reduce profitability.

Challenges and concerns

Despite the potential benefits, city officials have expressed reservations about implementing the new route. They highlight ongoing staffing shortages and the financial strain of maintaining current public transportation services. The city’s precarious budget, exacerbated by reduced funding from the central government, further complicates the matter.

Photo: FB/Budapest Airport

Moreover, according to BKK data, 80% of 100E passengers are tourists heading to or from the Pest side, raising questions about the demand for a Buda-originating service. Officials caution that the new route’s profitability might not match expectations, especially given the city’s current financial constraints.

What’s next?

The Budapest City Council is set to discuss the city’s 2024 budget in its upcoming meeting. This decision-making process will heavily influence whether the Buda-side airport shuttle project moves forward. In the meantime, VEKE continues to advocate for innovative solutions that enhance service quality while increasing revenue, emphasising the long-term benefits of expanding the airport transit network.

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