Bus Driver Shortage in Budapest Improving
Shortage of Staff at Budapest Public Transport Operator BKV Zrt. Not Endangering Operations
Despite a shortage of staff at the public transport operator in Budapest, BKV Zrt., operations of bus, trolleybus, metro, and tram lines are not in danger, as reported by 24.hu.
According to responses from the Center for Budapest Transport (BKK) to 24.hu inquiries, BKV employs 2,000 bus drivers, 300 trolleybus drivers, 950 tram drivers, and 330 metro drivers on a full-time basis. ArrivaBus also contributes to the bus service, employing 1,200 bus drivers.
To address the staff shortage, BKV has made a legally compliant training course available to allow category B drivers to obtain a category D license for bus driving. They have also increased wages by 15 percent in 2022, 16 percent in 2023, and 12.5 percent in 2024. As a result of these efforts and intensive recruitment, the shortage of staff in the “rubber wheel sectors” has eased and is expected to be completely eliminated with the current 300 trainees taking up their positions.
In the rail sectors, a shortage of 70-90 people has been reported, and BKV is replacing the missing drivers with part-time workers. ArrivaBus is also experiencing a driver shortage, but they have developed a comprehensive program to address the situation, including a revamped recruitment strategy, an extensive retention program, and a driving school.
ArrivaBus has also engaged in transparent wage communication and offers a wage calculator on its website. Bus drivers can take home a net HUF 456,000 for driving a solo bus on a morning shift, compared to HUF 491,000 for driving an articulated bus. Factors such as extra shifts and economical driving can also influence the salary. ArrivaBus is offering an entry bonus of HUF 500,000 for each new colleague.
Overall, efforts are being made by both BKV and ArrivaBus to address the staff shortage in the public transport sector in Budapest, ensuring that operations continue smoothly and efficiently for passengers.
