Cross-channel travellers ‘desert’ airlines for the train
Eurostar says travellers are deserting no-frills carriers to take the train. The train operator’s ebullient attitude came amid news of record passenger numbers in January and February. Eurostar carried over 1.02 million passengers in the first two months of 2004, an increase of over 20% year-on-year. Director of communications, Paul Charles said: “It is clear that travellers are deserting airlines on our routes – they are voting with their feet and choosing comfortable high-speed rail travel to Europe. Airlines are struggling to compete with Eurostar’s high levels of punctuality and frequency of service.” Eurostar says its new fares, which start from £59 return, are behind the increased demand. A statement from the company said: “While Eurostar attracted more passengers, airlines operating between London-Paris and London-Brussels have been axing services. Competitors BA and Ryanair have closed or announced the closure of some services to Paris and Brussels while bmi is cutting its frequency to Paris.”
Ginny McGrath
Have your say Cancel reply
Subscribe/Login to Travel Mole Newsletter
Travel Mole Newsletter is a subscriber only travel trade news publication. If you are receiving this message, simply enter your email address to sign in or register if you are not. In order to display the B2B travel content that meets your business needs, we need to know who are and what are your business needs. ITR is free to our subscribers.

































Phocuswright reveals the world's largest travel markets in volume in 2025
Cyclone in Sri Lanka had limited effect on tourism in contrary to media reports
Higher departure tax and visa cost, e-arrival card: Japan unleashes the fiscal weapon against tourists
Singapore to forbid entry to undesirable travelers with new no-boarding directive
Euromonitor International unveils world’s top 100 city destinations for 2025