Cross-channel travellers 'desert' airlines for the train

Eurostar says travellers are deserting no-frills carriers to take the train. The train operator’s ebullient attitude came amid news of record passenger numbers in January and February. Eurostar carried over 1.02 million passengers in the first two months of 2004, an increase of over 20% year-on-year. Director of communications, Paul Charles said: “It is clear that travellers are deserting airlines on our routes – they are voting with their feet and choosing comfortable high-speed rail travel to Europe. Airlines are struggling to compete with Eurostar’s high levels of punctuality and frequency of service.” Eurostar says its new fares, which start from £59 return, are behind the increased demand. A statement from the company said: “While Eurostar attracted more passengers, airlines operating between London-Paris and London-Brussels have been axing services. Competitors BA and Ryanair have closed or announced the closure of some services to Paris and Brussels while bmi is cutting its frequency to Paris.”