Third class train travel to return for first time in decades

Avanti West Coast Standard Premium service
Avanti West Coast launched new ‘middle class carriages’
PA

Three classes of travel are being offered by a British railway company for the first time in 65 years.

Avanti West Coast (AWC) trains are being kitted out with a new ‘premium economy class’ meaning economy passengers will be shunted back down to third place in the railway ranks.

It marks the return of a three-tier class system after it was abolished in 1956 when third class became second and then “standard” in 1988.

The new Standard Premium class will sit between AWC’s standard and first class services as a middle rate tier.

Passengers who buy into the new ‘middle class’ can enjoy roomier seats with extra leg room and a guaranteed table providing an office with a view or room for an onboard picnic.

There is also no need for travellers to budge from their seats during the journey from London Euston to Edinburgh and Glasgow thanks to its premium carriage service.

Customers can order drinks and snacks via their mobile phone and have them delivered to their seats.

But unlike first class, they do not get complimentary refreshments included in their ticket fee.

Initially, the new class is only available to buy as an upgrade on the day of travel.

Prices range from £15 to £30 depending on where passengers are travelling along the West Coast Main Line.

AWC replaced Virgin Trains and runs lines from London to Glasgow and Edinburgh, also serving Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool.

Premium economy class: What are the perks?

  • Roomier seats
  • Guaranteed table top
  • At-Seat Orders for food and drink delivery
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Access to Avanti Media at no extra charge

Third class train travel: The stats

AWC said 96% of passengers who took part in a trial of its premium economy service said they were “highly likely” or “likely” to upgrade on future journeys.

FirstGroup, the majority owner of AWC, reportedly considered introducing three classes of train travel on West Coast services in an ill-fated 2012 franchise bid.

A year later, the Department for Transport was forced to deny it was planning to require a third class service to be introduced on the East Coast Main Line after a three-tier system was included in a leaked franchise prospectus ahead of a return to private ownership.

Three-tier train travel: What does it mean for first class?

AWC plans to launch an enhanced first-class offering later this year, which will include improved catering and more bespoke customer service.

This will be available seven days a week, whereas the existing first-class service is reduced at weekends.

Work will begin next month on fully refurbishing Avanti West Coast’s fleet of 56 Pendolino trains.

“This is the first major step in our transformation of services on the West Coast,” said managing director Phil Whittingham.

“Together with our upcoming first-class service which will lead the industry, and the complete refurbishment of the Pendolino fleet, Standard Premium will set a new benchmark for UK rail travel.

“Our new class of travel will offer greater choice and provide a unique offer which meets customers’ changing needs as they return to rail.

“This new feature is another step in raising the bar for excellence on the railway.”

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