Färdplanen

Färdplanen is a Swedish term used in local and regional transport planning to describe an integrated travel plan that coordinates routes, timetables, and services across public transport operators within a region. The purpose is to improve reliability, accessibility, and efficiency of the network, while aligning with land-use and infrastructure investments. The term can refer to the planning document as well as the ongoing process of updating and refining service offerings.

Content and scope include the route structure of buses, trains, trams, and other modes; service frequencies and timetable development; transfer points and interchange design; rolling stock planning, depot and maintenance schedules; and capacity management. Sustainability objectives, such as reducing emissions and promoting electrified or low-emission services, are often integrated. Data standards, open data interfaces, and alignment with urban development plans are typically part of the färdplanen framework.

Process and governance: The färdplan is usually developed by a regional transport authority in collaboration with transport operators, municipalities, and other stakeholders. Key steps include data collection and demand analysis, modelling and scenario planning, public consultation, decision-making and adoption, and a defined revision cycle (commonly annual or every two to five years). The färdplan informs budgeting, procurement, and long-term infrastructure investments.

Implementation and impact: Once finalized, the färdplan serves as a reference for timetable publishing, service agreements, and capacity planning. It guides travellers through predictable schedules and supports operators in coordinating resources. Digital tools, real-time information, and passenger information systems are often coordinated with the färdplan to enhance user experience.

Notes: The form and naming of färdplanen vary by region. In some contexts it is used interchangeably with related terms such as kollektivtrafikplan or träningsplan, but its core focus remains integrated public transport planning.