New Year to see Adult Transport Fares increase by average of 15%

National Transport Authority announces Adult Transport fare increases for Public Service Obligation services in January 2027

The National Transport Authority (NTA) announced a change in the national fare structure for Public Service Obligation (PSO) services, which will come into effect in January 2027.

The revised fare structure represents the first broad adjustment to PSO fares since 2018 and forms part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy, supporting the continued expansion and improvement of public transport services while protecting affordable access for passengers.

Even following these changes, fares will remain approximately 8% lower than they were eight years ago, reflecting the fare reductions introduced in 2022 as part of Government cost of living measures. While adult fares will increase by an average of 15%, this remains below cumulative inflation, which has increased by 20.8% since 2022.

Services affected

The revised fares will apply across all PSO services operated under the Transport for Ireland (TFI) network, including Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail, Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland and TFI Local Link services.

The changes apply to cash fares, Leap Card fares and time-based products such as weekly and monthly passes.

· Many child fares, particularly in regional cities and towns, will be reduced.
· Adult fares will increase by an average of 15%.

What’s protected

Free travel for all children up to their ninth birthday.
Free travel for all people aged 66 and over.
Free travel for other passengers currently eligible under the Free Travel Scheme.
The 50% Young Adult and Student Discount.

Text Credit: NTA