SNCB has announced a major overhaul of its fare structure, set to take effect before the end of this year. The new system is designed to make train travel more affordable, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, and for those who travel frequently. Under the new approach, percentage-based discounts will replace fixed-rate fares, providing savings for all distances and offering additional benefits for young people, seniors, and beneficiaries of increased intervention.
This fare reform applies to multi-journey tickets and discount cards, but does not affect subscription fares. The changes align with SNCB’s Public Service Contract with the Belgian State, which aims to increase passenger numbers by 30% by 2032.
According to SNCB, this new pricing model will lead to a slight overall decrease in ticket revenue, meaning that, on average, train fares will become more affordable.
New SNCB fare structure
Currently, SNCB offers a mix of distance-based fares and flat-rate tickets, often leaving passengers to determine which option is most cost-effective for their journey. With the new system, fares will be calculated exclusively on distance, ensuring that passengers always receive the best possible price.
Key changes include:
- Young people, seniors, and beneficiaries of increased intervention will automatically receive a 40% discount on all tickets, regardless of travel time or distance. This replaces the existing Senior Ticket restrictions, allowing for one-way travel before 9 a.m.
- A new Weekend Ticket for adults (26-64 years old) with a 30% discount, including for one-way journeys.
- New group discounts: Small groups of four or more adults will receive a 40% discount on weekends and during off-peak hours.
- Reduced fares for long-distance travel: The maximum ticket price will be based on 120 km (instead of the current 150 km), leading to a 20% price reduction on very long trips. As a result, the maximum ticket price will drop from EUR 26 to EUR 20.90. Subscription fares will also be capped at 120 km by early 2026.
To encourage greater train use, especially outside of peak hours, SNCB will introduce a new Advantage Card, offering additional discounts and a capped maximum fare.
Pricing:
- EUR 4 per month (or EUR 32 annually) for young people, seniors, and eligible beneficiaries.
- EUR 6 per month (or EUR 48 annually) for adults aged 26-64.
Key benefits:
- Additional 40% discount during off-peak hours and weekends.
- Total discount of up to 64% for young people, seniors, and beneficiaries of increased intervention.
- Weekend travellers can combine the Weekend Ticket with the Advantage Card for a total discount of 58%.
- Maximum capped fare:
- EUR 14 for a one-way adult ticket.
- EUR 5.50 for young people, seniors, and eligible beneficiaries.
With the introduction of this percentage-based pricing model, SNCB will phase out current multi-journey ticket options, such as the Local, Standard, and Youth Multi tickets. However, tickets purchased before the transition will remain valid until their expiry date.
SNCB plans to communicate extensively in the coming months to ensure that passengers are well informed about the new fare system and its benefits.
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