Britain’s Rail: Passenger Journey Trends & Future Insights (RDG)

Passenger journeys on Britain’s railways surged to 1.1 billion, a 39% increase, yet still below pre-pandemic levels, according to the RDG’s latest data.

Britain’s Rail: Passenger Journey Trends & Future Insights (RDG)
May 24, 2017 12:52 am
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Introduction

In January 2024, the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) reported that 1.1 billion passenger journeys were made on Britain’s railways in the year to March 2023. This represents a 39% increase compared to the previous year.

Passenger Journey Data

The RDG data indicates that the 1.1 billion passenger journeys generated £7.1 billion in ticket revenue. The figures also reveal that rail usage is still below pre-pandemic levels, specifically 79% of the levels recorded in the year to March 2020. Season ticket sales remain at 60% of pre-pandemic levels, while leisure travel has recovered more strongly, reaching 93% of pre-pandemic levels.

Impact of Industrial Action

The RDG highlighted that industrial action by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) and the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF) had a significant impact. Between June 2022 and March 2023, industrial action resulted in the cancellation of approximately 22% of all train services. The RDG stated that the strikes cost the industry “hundreds of millions of pounds”.

Financial Performance

The RDG’s analysis of the financial data shows that the total operating costs for the railway industry were £17.2 billion. The government provided £12.1 billion in funding, while the remaining £5.1 billion came from fare revenue. The passenger revenue of £7.1 billion, together with £2.1 billion in revenue from other sources such as freight and station retail, amounted to a total of £9.2 billion.

Future Outlook

The RDG’s data was released as the industry awaited further updates on the future of the railway network. The RDG data was released while the government was considering potential reforms to the railway sector. The RDG’s analysis will inform ongoing discussions about the industry’s financial sustainability and operational efficiency.

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Conclusion

In summary, the RDG’s report for the year to March 2023 showed a significant increase in passenger journeys compared to the previous year, although usage remained below pre-pandemic levels. The report also highlighted the impact of industrial action and outlined the financial performance of the railway industry, including government funding and revenue sources.

Company Summary

Rail Delivery Group (RDG): The Rail Delivery Group is an industry body in Britain that represents train operating companies.

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