International train fares are determined by several factors, primarily based on the Swiss franc exchange rate against local currency.
For the Baku-Tbilisi-Baku route, ticket prices are calculated using the Swiss franc to manat rate based on agreements with Georgia. Each country along the route applies its own tariff coefficient.
Azər Farajov, head of the Passenger Transportation Department at Azerbaijan Railways CJSC, told APA that operational costs such as technical maintenance, locomotive and wagon operation, and service expenses also influence pricing.
Weekends, holidays, and seat selection further affect ticket prices. Since the pandemic, global tariffs have risen by an average of 110%.
Diesel fuel prices increased from 0.60 to 1.10 manat (83% rise), electricity tariffs for non-residential consumers rose from 0.09 to 0.125 manat (40% increase), and the minimum monthly wage reached 400 manat from 180 manat. Travel expenses increased by 45%.
Service quality has improved: old wagons have been replaced with modern Stadler sleeping cars. Maintenance and repairs are conducted under a contract between ADY and Stadler Rail Group.
The Georgian tariff component also affects the final price, with a 180% increase recorded in this component.
