Extension of Booking Horizons back to pre-Covid timescales?

[nick468]

Hi there,

Does anyone know if there are any plans to extend the regular advanced ticket booking horizons back to 12 weeks now the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions are (hopefully) in the rear view mirror?

Is there anyone who can be lobbied on this matter? I don't think I'm the only person who is frustrated at not being able to make firm travel plans until six weeks before set-off?

In my case, living in Ireland, I'd fly over to the UK, and often link in with a train to get to my final destination. I used to be able to do it all together. But as a result of the shorter booking horizons, I've held off booking flights, so I have the 'full picture' when it comes to travel costs when booking. So it's a case of a more expensive flight for a cheaper train ticket, or a cheaper flight for a more expensive train fare - if that makes sense!

- Nick

 

[Watershed]

Hi there,

Does anyone know if there are any plans to extend the regular advanced ticket booking horizons back to 12 weeks now the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions are (hopefully) in the rear view mirror?

Is there anyone who can be lobbied on this matter? I don't think I'm the only person who is frustrated at not being able to make firm travel plans until six weeks before set-off?

In my case, living in Ireland, I'd fly over to the UK, and often link in with a train to get to my final destination. I used to be able to do it all together. But as a result of the shorter booking horizons, I've held off booking flights, so I have the 'full picture' when it comes to travel costs when booking. So it's a case of a more expensive flight for a cheaper train ticket, or a cheaper flight for a more expensive train fare - if that makes sense!

- Nick

Unfortunately there is little likelihood of things improving anytime soon. The situation re: changing timetables is still seen as two uncertain to move from T-8 (as it currently is for most operators) back to T-12.

Timescales are already compressed compared to pre-Covid - where operators used to bid their plans to Network Rail 18 weeks out, that is now just 12 weeks out, which gives much less time for the bids to be processed.

Fundamentally, there will need to be a period with less change to the base timetables before the industry will return to T-12 - if it ever does...

 

[Wallsendmag]

I don't know keep an eye open on Thursday for the LNER booking horizon. TPE are pretty good as well.