IT bug stops SNCF selling tickets

Rail operator hopes to fix problem later this afternoon that is affecting thousands of bank holiday weekend travellers

RAIL travellers trying to get away for the bank holiday weekend have been unable to buy tickets this afternoon due to a technical problem.

The SNCF’s central reservation system stopped working earlier today, affecting ticket offices, self-service machines and online sales.

The rail operator says it has identified the problem and passengers trying to travel this weekend will be able to buy tickets from about 16.30.

Anyone booking tickets for later travel will be able to reserve again from tomorrow morning.

The problem affects long-distance Corail, TGV and Intercités services. Local TER and Transilien ticket machines are unaffected, as are Thalys, idTGV and Eurostar.