Berlin taxi fares to rise by an average of 20 per cent

Taxi rides are becoming significantly more expensive in Berlin. Three years after the last fare increase, the senate decided to raise prices by an average of 20 per cent, as mobility senator Bettina Jarasch (Greens) announced on Tuesday.

The change comes into force on 20 December. It also affects the airport tariff for the BER in Schönefeld, which was only changed in May of this year. For taxis from the Brandenburg district of Dahme- Spreewald, where the BER is located, a corresponding decision by the district council is still pending.

Flat rate for short distances unchanged

Jarasch justified the fare increase with higher costs for the taxi industry. These were due to high energy prices, but also to a higher minimum wage. The new rates affect practically all basic and kilometre rates as well as surcharges in rate levels 2 and 3. Only the flat rate for short distances up to two kilometres (rate level 1) remains unchanged at six euros.