New operator to challenge Eurostar cross-channel services
Gemini Trains has announced plans for cross-channel services, competing with Eurostar which is currently the sole service provider.
If the project goes ahead, services will initially operate between London St Pancras, Paris and Brussels.
Gemini Trains joins two other operators also proposing services through the Channel Tunnel – Virgin Trains and Spain’s Evolyn, according to businesstraveller.com.
Plans announced for European ‘tube’
21st Europe has announced plans to launch a new rail network connecting 39 destinations in Europe, including the UK, Turkey and Ukraine.
The Europe-wide high-speed train, named Starline, would function like a metro or tube system.
It is estimated to be 30% faster than current rail travel, with trains operating at 300-400kph. That means journeys from Helsinki to Berlin would be just over five hours instead of the current full-day journey.
The group is aiming to have the network running by 2040, with a unified design the key to making it possible.
However, one major challenge is that cross-border travel remains fragmented, slow, and expensive due to complex ticketing, and outdated stations, among others, according to euronews.com.
Amtrak introduces new trains
Amtrak is to introduce upgraded trains on some of its routes next year.
The Amtrak Airo trains will have spacious interiors with panoramic windows. Seating will be more spacious, with extra leg-room, bigger tray tables, and moveable headrests and seats. Café cars have been upgraded with self-service options.
The trains will operate at speeds over 200kph and will be more fuel efficient.
From 2026, the trains will be gradually introduced on some of the operator’s main lines, including the Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Amtrak Virginia, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Amtrak Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack.
Vietnam announces Hanoi-Hai Phong luxury train
A luxury train featuring 20 newly designed carriages, will begin operations between Hanoi and Hai Phong by May 13.
The train includes two VIP carriages with 16 single sofas and five sets of 20-seat sofas and a bar with live musical performances. The remaining 18 carriages have 56 swivel seats, according to e.vnexpress.net.
Over the past five years, the Hanoi-Hai Phong railway, which spans 102km, has become popular for food tours.
Melbourne Airport Rail Link on the cards
Plans for the Melbourne Airport Rail Link are under way after an agreement between the Albanese Government, Allan Government and Australia Pacific Airports (Melbourne) was reached following numerous delays.
The agreement builds on the recent decision to start works on rebuilding Sunshine Station in Melbourne, something that is essential for starting services to the airport.
When work is complete, passengers could reach the airport from the city in about half an hour.
Currently there is no timeframe for how long construction could take. The entire project was expected to begin in 2029, but works on Sunshine Station, which are described as stage one of the rail link, will not be finished until 2030, according to 9news.com.au.
