Marketing pricing is essential on high speed lines

This article presents an international comparison of high speed train fare policy, with a focus on China, who is at the top of the high speed table with operating speeds of up to 350 km/h. However, this article posits that China is not making the most of high speed rail's potential benefits due to its use of tariff-based pricing - setting fairs according to the distance traveled. Market pricing, as used in other countries such as France and the UK, involves charging higher fares for peak travel and for flexible tickets and charging lower fares for people who book in advance or during non-peak periods and who buy non-refundable tickets, has been shown to attract more passengers, increase revenue and reduce the need for subsidy. Examples of market pricing in France and the UK are presented, with comparisons made to the practices of Chinese Railways.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/03735346
• Authors:
  • Schabas, Michael
• Publication Date: 2012-9

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos;
• Pagination: pp 88-92, 94, 96
• Serial:
  • Railway Gazette International
  • Volume: 166
  • Issue Number: 9
  • Publisher: DVV Media Group
  • ISSN: 0373-5346
  • Serial URL: http://www.railwaygazette.com/about-us.html

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Case studies; Fares; High speed rail; Marketing; Passenger service; Policy; Value of service pricing
• Identifier Terms: Chinese Railways
• Geographic Terms: China; France; United Kingdom
• Subject Areas: Finance; Passenger Transportation; Policy; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01447550
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 27 2012 4:42PM