Economy Class & Beyond

Siemens next-generation Underground train heads off for testing

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The first of the new trains for Transport for London has made it off the production line and is off to Germany for testing. This train - the first of 94 - will be used to replace the existing trains used on the Piccadilly Line under the New Tube for London programme. With it complete, it has been sent to the Siemens Test and Validation Centre in Wegberg-Wildenrath, … [Read more...]

Transpennine Express franchise to be stripped from FirstGroup

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For long-suffering travellers in the North of England and Scotland, there's something to smile about today as FirstGroup is to be stripped of operating its Transpennine Express franchise. Transpennine Express "Nova 1" Class 802 Train - Image, Hitachi Rail.  The Transport Secretary has announced he will not renew or extend Transpennine Express’s (TPE) contract at the end … [Read more...]

The Elizabeth Line prepares to take its final form

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The 21st of May is an important day for the Elizabeth Line and the Crossrail project, as the full peak timetable will finally go into effect.   It's a rather big change, with a train operating in the core section roughly every two and a half minutes between Paddington and Whitechapel at peak time with frequencies increased to up to 24 trains per hour in … [Read more...]

Northern Trains unveils its passengers worst habits…

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Northern Trains has released the results of a survey, and it's going through its passengers' worst habits when on a train. Northern CAF Class 195 trains at Manchester Piccadilly - Image, Economy Class and Beyond. When the Northern Trains can operate up to 2,500 trains a day (subject to staffing), there are some stunts that passengers pull, varying from bad manners to … [Read more...]

KLM extends its Air-Rail partnership with Thalys

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KLM is adding further rail capacity, with the airline purchasing additional seats from Thalys, between Amsterdam and Brussels.  KLM and Thayls together- Image, KLM. The extra seats form part of KLM’s efforts to scale down its four daily flights still operated between Amsterdam and Brussels. The extended air/rail product will be available from 26 March … [Read more...]

Avanti West Coast start testing of their new Class 805 trains

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In brighter days past - Avanti West Coast promised new trains as part of its franchise commitment. Well, it seems the company is taking steps forward, with the first of the new trains now commencing mainline testing according to its owners, FirstGroup. Avanti West Coast Hitachi Class 805 train on test at Preston Station - Image, FirstGroup.  The train that … [Read more...]

LNER Launches new dining options in first class.

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Let us turn our eye to the passenger experience on the trains - with London North Eastern Railway (LNER) launching its new catering options. The menu presented celebrates specially sourced food and drink from local suppliers along the East Coast route. These options are for those travelling in the train operators' First Class seating.  The catering … [Read more...]

Elizabeth Line services commence through-running

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A challenger has appeared as the Elizabeth Line train has commenced through-running through the Crossrail core. And yes, the Purple trains will be going through it The new configuration of the Elizabeth line means that trains from the West (Reading and Heathrow branches) will mostly go through the Crossrail core and terminate at Abbey Wood. Meanwhile, from the East … [Read more...]

UK Department for Transport to increase rail fare evasion fines

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A lot of people pay the train fare, make a face and move on. Some don't however and they can be subject to penalty fare fines.In the past, this was £20. This will now be increased to up to £100 from the 2nd of January 2023. It's going to be even more crucial that you have a valid ticket for your journey. The penalty charge is reduced from £100 to £50 … [Read more...]