Postauto Faces Safety Crisis as 42 Staff Sound Alarm on Vehicle Defects

Forty-two Postauto drivers in Graubünden’s Surselva region filed a formal complaint on September 10 alleging widespread vehicle maintenance failures and safety risks. Investigations by Beobachter and Linth24 reveal the problems extend nationwide, with Ticino, Valais, Jura, and Appenzell Ausserrhoden particularly affected. Postauto management acknowledged vehicles with defects are in operation but stated they are not safety-critical.

Drivers report duct tape repairs and delayed maintenance

Postauto staff describe vehicles being repaired with duct tape and experiencing prolonged delays for motor, brake, and electronic repairs. The 42 Surselva drivers submitted their complaint after conditions deteriorated. Beobachter’s investigation confirmed the issues span multiple cantons, with staff warning of dangers to road safety and passengers.

Company acknowledges defects but downplays safety risk

Postauto management told Beobachter that vehicles with defects are indeed operating in the Surselva region. However, the company stated the defects are not safety-relevant and promised measures to address them. A company statement stressed that “safety is and remains top priority.” The company has not disclosed specific timelines for repairs or which vehicle systems are affected.

Widespread concerns across five cantons

Staff reports indicate particularly severe conditions in Ticino, Valais, Jura, and Appenzell Ausserrhoden. Drivers describe precarious fleet conditions and warn of risks to both road safety and passengers. The geographic spread suggests systemic maintenance issues rather than isolated regional problems. Postauto has not released a detailed action plan or repair schedule.

What this means for passengers and investors

For passengers, the reports raise questions about service reliability and safety on routes operated by Postauto, which runs regional bus services across Switzerland. For investors in Swiss transport infrastructure and postal services, the disclosure highlights operational and reputational risks. Regulatory scrutiny may follow, particularly given that federal transport authorities have already criticized governance practices at other Swiss bus operators for mismanaging subsidies and creating conflicts of interest.

Final Thoughts

Postauto faces a credibility test as staff allegations of widespread vehicle defects spread across five cantons. The company’s assertion that defects are non-critical contradicts driver safety concerns and risks regulatory intervention and reputational damage.

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