Rail fares to rise by an average of 1.1% in January

Rail tickets increased by an average of 1.1% in January 2010.

Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies said:

“The handful of fares being quoted by Passenger Focus and the unions are well above the average and will only be paid by a tiny proportion of customers. The reality is that the vast majority of people travelling by rail will see a fall, no rise or an increase below inflation. By picking out changes that affect a small minority of people, Passenger Focus and the unions are giving a very partial impression of ticket prices in 2010.

“The fact is that fares will rise by an average of 1.1% in January. Not only is this the lowest rise since privatisation, it also comes in below the expected rate of inflation, representing a real terms cut in fares for many passengers.

“The rail regulator’s figures show that the average price paid for a single journey is just £5.05. The 1.1% increase will mean this figure will rise by 6p to £5.11.”