Getlink considering introduction of low cost UK-France rail operations

Groupe Eurotunnel (Getlink) commissioned a feasibility study by Roland Berger to introduce low cost rail operations between the UK and France (Journal du Dimanche, 30-Jun-2018). The study outlines a operating model similar to that of SNCF and Thalys low cost rail services in Europe. A reduction of between 25% and 30% on regular Eurostar ticket costs is expected at the cost of travel time increasing from 2h20 to slightly more than three hours, according to the study. Getlink president Jacques Gounon said the study shows the rail industry is preparing to go through the "transformation the aviation industry witnessed" from 2003 to 2005 with the appearance of European LCC operations.