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Ryanair Takes On TGV
The Independent reports on Ryanair's plans to "take on the TGV" by launching a series of internal flights in France, including one between Paris (well, nearly) and Marseilles (or thereabouts).
Reporter John Lichfield is very diplomatic, noting how the wildly successful low-cost airline doesn't hope to compete "initially" with France's high-speed rail service. He explains how the flights, aimed apparently at residents of France's northern regions, will leave Beauvais (50 miles and around an hour in the coach) north of Paris, arriving in Mariagne airport just under an hour from Marseilles an hour later. Ticket prices are expected to start around €25-30, going up to €250.
Perhaps those living in Normandy or Lille will chose to fly with Ryanair, rather than take the trek to Paris to take the TGV: Most accept that despite the enormous success of the TGV trains, there is a market for internal flights in France even if it is notoriously stitched up in favour of French "champion" Air France.
But Ryanair? An hour to Beauvais. Another hour waiting around. An hour's flight, with Ryanair's surly flight assistants and proudly non-existent customer care. Another hour into Marseilles. The TGV does it in three hours in comfort, style and with less impact on the environment. Prices are fair, too.
EURSOC is always keen to wish the best of luck to those who take on Europe's monopolies, but in this case, we're going with the train. It's the only way to travel!
