"Despite the good result, there is pressure to increase ticket prices in the coming years because our operating expenses are estimated to increase by over 15 percent by 2019. The Ring Rail Line and the West Metro to be completed this year increase infrastructure costs in particular,” says Rihtniemi.
In 2016, HSL’s operating income totaled 641.7 million euros, exceeding the budget by 10.6 million euros. Ticket revenue accounted for 51.6% of the operating income, municipal contributions for 45.8%. Other operating income mainly consisted of government subsidies and ticket inspection revenue.
Operating expenses amounted to 613.7 million euros, 40,5 million euros short of the budget. At nearly 477 million euros, public transport operating costs were by far the largest item of expenditure, accounting for 78% of operating expenses.
HSL’s passenger numbers continued to increase. Over 367 million journeys were made in the HSL area, an increase of 2.4% from 2015. The biggest increases were seen in train and tram ridership.
"The Ring Rail Line has increased train travel and passenger numbers have increased, in particular, at the Helsinki Airport station,” explains Rihtniemi. Tram ridership increased, among other things, due to new services to Jätkäsaari.
Customer satisfaction with public transport remained high, with 88% of passengers being satisfied with public transport services according to HSL’s surveys.
HSL passenger numbers in 2010-2016
mill. boardings Increase %
2010 327.0 2.3
2011 335.9 2.8
2012 344.9 2.7
2013 351.4 1.9
2014 353.3 0.6
2015 358.6 1.5
2016 367.2 2.4