Brussels, Belgium – Eurostar, the high-speed rail operator, announced on Thursday that it transported a record-breaking 19.5 million passengers in 2024.
The Brussels-based company reported a 5% increase in travellers compared to the previous year, marking an additional 850,000 passengers.
Eurostar attributes this surge in ridership to a growing demand for international train travel, as well as the boost provided by the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.
The company, partially owned by Belgian railway operator SNCB, operates high-speed routes connecting Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as linking mainland Europe to London.
Changes to Eurostar’s Belgium Service
Despite the record passenger numbers, Eurostar is set to implement a significant change in its service next year. From April 2025, the company will discontinue through-tickets for travel between the UK and any station in Belgium.
This means that passengers will no longer be able to book a single ticket covering both Eurostar and Belgian domestic train connections, requiring them to purchase separate tickets instead.
The decision has raised concerns among travellers who frequently use the service between the UK and Belgium, particularly business commuters and tourists.
Industry analysts speculate that the move is linked to operational challenges and financial constraints, as Eurostar continues to recover from pandemic-related losses and rising infrastructure costs.
Eurostar Rated Europe’s Worst Rail Operator
In contrast to its record passenger numbers, Eurostar has been ranked as the worst railway operator in Europe for service quality, pricing, and policies.
A study conducted by the transport think tank Transport and Environment (T&E) assessed 27 European rail companies and placed Eurostar at the bottom of the list.
The study criticized Eurostar for its high ticket prices, frequent reliability issues, and its restrictive no-bike policy, which prevents cyclists from transporting bicycles on its services.
The ranking comes amid growing calls for improved affordability and accessibility in European rail travel, particularly as train operators seek to position themselves as eco-friendly alternatives to air travel.
Potential Fare Reductions on the Horizon?
However, there could be some relief for passengers in the near future. From April 2025, Eurostar will face reduced costs for using the high-speed rail line between London and the Channel Tunnel.
This could potentially lead to lower ticket prices, though the company has yet to confirm any pricing adjustments.
As Eurostar balances record demand with mounting criticism, the company will be under pressure to improve its service quality while maintaining its strong position as a key player in European high-speed rail.
Passengers and industry experts alike will be watching closely to see whether the operator takes steps to address customer concerns while capitalizing on the growing popularity of international rail travel.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
