SNCF Fare Increase: A Limited 1.5% Hike with Mixed Reactions

Starting this Wednesday, January 8, 2025, ticket prices for TGV Inoui and Ouigo services will increase by an average of 1.5%. SNCF Voyageurs describes this adjustment as “limited to inflation.” On average, this translates to less than one euro per ticket, approximately 70 cents, according to the company.

Measures to Protect Price-Sensitive Customers

SNCF assures that this increase will not affect the lowest-priced TGV Inoui and Ouigo tickets, leisure subscriptions, or Avantage card conditions. For instance, over half of Ouigo tickets will continue to be offered at under €30, and Max Jeune and Max Senior subscriptions will remain priced at €79 per month. The prices of the Avantage and Liberté cards, at €49 and €349 respectively, will also remain unchanged.

However, tickets for high-demand routes and long-distance journeys, such as Paris-Nice, could see price increases ranging from €1 to €7 per trip under the dynamic pricing system. Despite this, one out of every two leisure tickets in 2025 is expected to cost less than €47.

Differentiated Impact by Train Categories

Intercités, operated under state oversight, will experience an average fare increase of 1.9%. For frequent travelers, subscriptions like “Max Actif” and “Max Actif+” will see their monthly fees rise by 4% starting April 1. Additionally, TGV Inoui Weekly and Monthly passes will face a 10% increase from January 29.

Increase Justified by Rising Operational Costs

SNCF attributes this fare adjustment to growing operational costs, including energy prices, track access fees (accounting for up to 40% of a TGV ticket price), and wage increases. The company notes, however, that this fare hike will only cover half of its additional costs for 2025.

Customer Dissatisfaction and Perception Gap

While SNCF highlights its efforts to “protect purchasing power” and maintain accessible travel options, customer sentiment remains mixed. Many criticize the high prices, exacerbated by dynamic pricing and a reduced train fleet struggling to meet rising demand.

In 2024, TGV passenger numbers increased by 6%, with an average occupancy rate of 77%. However, this commercial success contrasts with customer concerns over fare increases that often exceed official announcements. The French Transport Regulatory Authority (ART) has reported higher fare hikes than those disclosed by SNCF in some cases.

Outlook for 2025

Despite criticisms, SNCF continues to balance its economic model, prioritizing affordability for passengers while addressing its rising operational costs. With record-breaking demand in 2024, the company’s growing revenues may help mitigate some of the negative perceptions surrounding this latest fare increase.