SNCB relaunches reduced price Duo Ticket to attract more passengers

Belgian railway company SNCB/NMBS is bringing back its Duo Ticket, which offers two-for-one pricing for journeys by two people.

Following a year of massive financial losses due to plummeting passenger numbers as a result of the pandemic, the national rail operator is hoping to lure back customers with the special offering, which will be valid until the end of August.

People travelling as a pair can purchase two tickets for the price of one standard fare ticket. The Duo ticket can be purchased on the SNCB app, from the official railway company website, at ticket machines and through ticket offices. 

“Taking the train means choosing sustainable mobility and participating in the necessary modal shift,” SNCB said in a statement.

“This Duo Ticket is an attractive opportunity for people to leave their cars behind more. It supports the climate objectives and the increase in the modal share of rail travel.”

The Duo ticket’s first run was during the end-of-year holidays, but this second edition will be available for a longer duration, from 2 April to 31 August 2022.

“The train is the sustainable and comfortable mode of transport par excellence,” the company said. “The SNCB wants to return to the number of passengers before the health crisis as quickly as possible. To do this, it wants to reconnect with its customers and attract new passengers.” 

While the health crisis has had a major impact on train use – particularly for commuters, who stopped taking the train amid lockdowns and mandatory work-from-home measures – leisure travel has retained and even gained popularity as coronavirus restrictions are gradually lifted. 

Within 10 years, SNCB hopes to attract 40% more leisure travellers.