Just as some airlines have been overly optimistic with passenger forecasts the same applies to certain train companies.
Last month we reported that Thalys was to merge with Eurostar in 2021.
At that time Thalys was in bullish mood. It had decided to boost service frequency and make corporate rates freely available to all business travellers.
However Thalys’ plans have been thwarted by the curfew and other Covid-19 restrictions which have since been applied in its three main markets of Belgium, France and The Netherlands.
In its latest update Thalys says it has decided to cut capacity to 30 per cent of its usual level. The reduced schedules will apply from November 2 until December 14.
From 2 November to 14 December #Thalys will adapt its offer to 30% of its usual capacity. pic.twitter.com/KvcxLrzKYj
— Thalys Newsroom (@NewsroomThalys) October 27, 2020
Whereas daily services remain on its three routes to Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands, there will be greater cuts on Thalys’ budget brand Izy which will be reduced to operating four times a week.
Izy deploys a Eurostar trainset between Paris Nord and Brussels Midi. The service uses the ‘classic lines’ and therefore its fares are lower as it avoids costlier fees for the HS (high-speed) route.
Fellow HS operator Eurostar is also badly affected. All of its destinations suffer Covid restrictions, prompting Eurostar to cut schedules.
This information is correct at time of writing. Due to the changing nature of the pandemic situation, readers are advised to check schedules at the time of booking and before travel.
