The SNCB has just presented its new fare offer, which it will introduce by the end of the year.
The federal government has confirmed its expectations of the SNCB, namely a 30% increase in passengers by 2030. The aim is therefore to increase train occupancy through clearer pricing.
Currently, for seniors, time restrictions require return journeys after 9am in order to benefit from a fixed preferential fare (€8.50), regardless of the distance travelled and provided the return trip is completed the same day.
The new public service contract signed with the SNCB for the period up to 2032 stipulates, in Article 30, that the second-class senior ticket will be calculated on the standard price with a 40% discount, available at any time of day.
For an occasional senior traveller, this represents a considerable increase in the ticket price, with no cap for most journeys.
To offset pricing that does not encourage seniors to take the train, an additional offer has been added. Seniors are offered the chance to buy an “Advantage” card (€4 per month or €32 per year), which provides an extra 40% discount (provided departure takes place during off-peak hours, weekends or public holidays) and caps the ticket at €5.50 per journey, regardless of the time of day.
An opportunity for seniors or a missed chance?
Seniors travelling very regularly will be able to take advantage of more attractive fares during off-peak hours between 9am and 4pm. Meanwhile, more occasional senior travellers will pay more for their train journeys.
A single flat-rate fare proposal could have had greater impact and led to more frequent and less restrictive use among a larger number of seniors.
Moreover, a fare partnership with other public transport operators would have given greater visibility to a more environmentally friendly mobility policy.
