Munich, Bavaria, Germany – The Münchner Verkehrsgesellschaft (MVG) is set to implement significant changes and advancements across its public transport network in 2026. These initiatives include the partial launch of the Tram-Westtangente, modernization efforts for the U-Bahn, and adjustments to the bus services, alongside preparations for winter weather.
Bus Network Adjustments and Capacity Increases
The MVG’s bus network will undergo several modifications to address growing demand in newly developed residential areas. Services on lines 57, 143, and 164 will see expanded offerings, while lines 130 and 190 will incorporate larger vehicles to increase capacity. However, these improvements will lead to the discontinuation of booster services on lines 56, 58, 68, 162, and 163. Additionally, the route for night bus line 71 will be shortened. These changes reflect a strategic reallocation of resources to optimize service where demand is highest, while maintaining financial viability [tz.de](https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/aenderungen-etliche-linien-betroffen-fahrplanwechsel-in-muenchen-steht-an-mvg-informiert-ueber-94074260.html).
U-Bahn Modernization and U9 Planning
The U-Bahn system is slated for modernization, particularly lines 3 and 6, which are currently in their renewal cycle. While specific details on the extent of the 2026 upgrades are yet to be finalized, MVG spokesperson Maximilian Kaltner stated, “Planning is underway. As soon as these lead to concrete measures, we will inform you.” Furthermore, the preliminary planning results for the proposed U9 line are expected to be available in 2026, marking a crucial step in the long-term expansion of Munich’s underground network. Recent reports also indicate a new timetable for 2026 starting on Sunday, December 14, 2025, with minor minute-by-minute adjustments across all three modes of transport: U-Bahn, tram, and bus [t-online.de](https://muenchen.t-online.de/region/muenchen/id_101035044/muenchen-mvg-fahrplanwechsel-aenderungen-bei-bus-tram-und-u-bahn.html).
Significant U-Bahn infrastructure work is also planned. From October 12 to November 6, 2025, U4 and U5 services will be restricted in late evenings due to fire protection and wall renovation work at Hauptbahnhof. From November 9, 2025, to March 5, 2026, U1 and U2 services will operate every 20 minutes in late evenings due to extensive fire protection measures on the lower platform level of Hauptbahnhof. Additionally, cleaning and renovation of walls at U-Bahnhof Theresienstraße will cause U2 disruptions on six weekends from October 24 to November 30, 2025, with U8 also affected [mvg.de].
Tram-Westtangente Launch and 150th Anniversary Celebrations
2026 promises to be an eventful year for Munich’s tram system. The long-awaited first section of the Tram-Westtangente, connecting Agnes-Bernauer-Straße and Ammerseestraße, is scheduled to commence operations on Friday, February 27, 2026, “as soon as the necessary infrastructure is in place,” according to Kaltner. This marks a significant milestone in improving connectivity in Munich’s western districts. The project aims to provide faster, more reliable, and comfortable travel, offering new direct connections and reducing the need to travel through the city center, thereby relieving the U-Bahn system. The Tram-Westtangente is expected to attract significantly more passengers than current bus services in the area and will feature barrier-free stops and greened tracks [westtangente.mvg.de].
Further construction related to the Tram-Westtangente includes the demolition and reconstruction of the East Bridge at Ammerseestraße starting in February. The main water pipeline 5 between Kreuzhof and the A96 bridge will be rebuilt, and the 110kV power line along Fürstenrieder Straße at Waldfriedhof will be rerouted by autumn. Street and track construction work is scheduled to begin in September.
A major highlight for the tram system in 2026 will be the celebration of its 150th birthday in October. The festivities will include a parade of historic vehicles through the city center and a special event at the MVG Museum.
Winter Preparedness and Emergency Plans
In anticipation of potential heavy snowfall and extreme winter conditions, the MVG has developed robust emergency plans. Kaltner assured that “we have clear procedures and alert plans for a sudden heavy snowfall.” The MVG has ensured an adequate number of staff, necessary equipment, and close coordination with the city of Munich to effectively manage any winter-related disruptions and maintain public transport services.
Source: [tz.de](https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/hallo-muenchen/einbruch-u9-muenchen-2026-mvg-strassenbahn-tram-bus-linien-u-bahn-westtangente-winter-94097291.html), [t-online.de](https://muenchen.t-online.de/region/muenchen/id_101035044/muenchen-mvg-fahrplanwechsel-aenderungen-bei-bus-tram-und-u-bahn.html), [abendzeitung-muenchen.de](https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/mvg-kuerzt-dehnt-schiebt-wo-muenchen-kuenftig-anders-faehrt-art-1098316), [westtangente.mvg.de](https://westtangente.mvg.de/projekt.html?lang=en), [mvg.de](https://www.mvg.de/presse/pressemeldungen/2025-10-10-modernisierung-u-bahn.html)
