Chunnel trains still affected by Sept. 11 fire
The Chunnel and Eurostar trains have become the preferred travel method between London and Paris, Lille, Calais and Brussels for many travelers, carrying almost a million passengers a month. So when a fire broke out on a freight train Sept 11, 2008, and resulted in the closure of one of two tunnels, the ramifications were widespread. And many trains were canceled.
Now, according to an update sent by RailEurope to travel agents, Eurostar is back to 93 percent capacity. But the schedule and train numbers have been adjusted.
All tickets booked and printed prior to October 1 have the incorrect train numbers and/or travel times, while those booked after this date carry the updated times and train numbers.
The trains are also taking slightly longer, but that’s still only 2 hours and 43 minutes between London and Paris, so they are still probably a faster downtown-to-downtown option than flying.
In addition, until November 4, Eurostar is using a “manual” check-in process. And, instead of the usual 30 minute check-in, they are recommending passengers arrive an hour in advance. All seats, regardless of what the ticket says, will be assigned at the station.
The translation of all of this? It’s going to be a little chaotic at the stations. Many people won’t hear about the changes, and are likely to show up with the wrong tickets. In addition, as anyone who has been at an airport when the computers are down knows, any sort of manual check-in never goes as smoothly as hoped.
In the grand scheme of travel stresses, the Eurostar problems are minor. But to keep them minor, double check your train times with your travel agent or other supplier, show up early, and keep a relaxed attitude.
It’s still easier than dealing with the airports.
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