French rail operator SNCF has been ranked fifth in Europe for passenger experience and services. Despite this achievement, the company faces criticism for high ticket prices and inconsistent reliability. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

SNCF
JeanLucIchard/Shutterstock

SNCF Stands Out for Passenger Experience

SNCF earned recognition for its excellent passenger experience, generous refund policy, and extensive night train options. These factors make it a leader in customer service among European rail companies. However, SNCF’s high fares and frequent delays remain a challenge, limiting its position in the rankings.

Don’t miss…Southern California’s Metrolink: Expanding Operations with Alstom

Italian rail operator Trenitalia claimed first place, praised for its affordability and exceptional quality. Swiss operator SBB came second for its punctuality and user-friendly booking system, while Czech rail service RegioJet ranked third for affordability and customer satisfaction. Austria’s ÖBB, excelling in night trains and booking, secured fourth place.

Challenges Facing SNCF and Other Operators

T&E’s report criticized the broader rail industry for inconsistent service quality and expensive tickets. Victor Thévenet, T&E’s rail policy manager, highlighted affordability as a major issue deterring passengers from train travel. “Operators like SNCF must reduce fares and improve reliability to attract more travelers,” he said.

The report also emphasized the need for integrated European rail services, urging the EU to mandate ticket-sharing for seamless cross-border bookings. These measures aim to simplify travel and encourage sustainable transportation choices across Europe.

Source: www.connexionfrance.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Advanced Propulsion Systems for Metro de Madrid’s Trains

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit