SNCF to refund delayed trains

LONG-DISTANCE train passengers who are delayed by more than an hour will be entitled to a partial refund from this week.

A new European directive means the SNCF must now offer travellers money back instead of the vouchers currently given out.

The rules apply to TGV, Corail and Intercité services, but not to local TER (train express régional) routes or the Transilien suburban service in the Ile-de-France.

For delays between 30 and 59 minutes, the system remains unchanged - passengers are entitled to a money-off voucher for 33% of the cost of the journey, which can then be claimed against the purchase of another ticket.

Beyond an hour, travellers can choose to get money back instead of a voucher. For delays between an hour and two, they can apply for a 25% refund made by bank transfer, or a 33% money-off voucher if preferred.

Delays of more than two hours entitle the passenger to a 50% refund or a 66% voucher.

The new European rules aim to introduce a standard compensation policy across the EU rail network.