Public Transport Fare Evasion Rises to 25%, Costing NIS 500 Million Annually
Translated & summarized from TheMarker by baba
Fare evasion on Israeli public transport has climbed to an estimated 20%-25%, causing an annual revenue loss of about 500 million shekels. This increase is partly linked to a 45% rise in fares over the last two years. Operating companies are now deploying more inspectors to combat the problem. The data is based on updated figures for 2026 from the National Public Transport Authority.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Public transport fare evasion in Israel has reached 20%-25% in 2026.
- This evasion is estimated to cost the state 500 million shekels annually.
- The rate of evasion has increased from 15%-20% in 2025.
- A 45% increase in public transport fares is cited as a contributing factor.
- Companies are increasing inspector numbers to check for validated tickets.
Fare evasion on public transportation in Israel has risen significantly, reaching an estimated 20% to 25% of passengers, according to new data from the National Public Transport Authority. This marks an increase from 2025, when the rate was estimated between 15% and 20%. The phenomenon has accelerated over the past two years, partly attributed to a 45% increase in public transport fares. The estimated annual revenue loss to the state from this evasion is approximately 500 million shekels. In response, the companies operating public transport have begun increasing the number of inspectors boarding buses to check for validated tickets.
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