Power issues and a stuck train caused significant disruptions in the Channel Tunnel, affecting Eurostar passenger services and vehicle shuttles between France and England, leading to stranded travelers and canceled trips during the holiday season.
Eurostar services between the UK and continental Europe were halted due to a power supply problem in the Channel Tunnel, causing major travel disruptions during the New Year season, with passengers advised to change plans and avoid station visits.
Eurostar suspended services through the Channel Tunnel due to a power supply problem, causing delays and disruptions during the peak winter travel season, with no clear timeline for resumption.
Eurostar suspended all train services between London and continental Europe, including Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels, due to a major power supply problem in the Channel Tunnel, causing significant delays and cancellations. Services are gradually restarting, but the issue remains unresolved, and passengers are advised to reschedule their trips.
Eurostar has advised passengers not to travel due to major disruptions caused by a power supply failure in the Channel Tunnel, leading to cancellations and severe delays on services between London and Paris, with additional delays reported at Folkestone and Calais terminals.
Strike action by Eurotunnel staff over a year-end bonus dispute caused the cancellation of dozens of Eurostar trains, disrupting travel between the UK and France. However, the strike has now ended after an agreement was reached between Eurotunnel management and trade union representatives. Traffic through the Channel Tunnel will gradually resume, providing relief to travelers during the busy Christmas period. French transport minister Clement Beaune welcomed the resolution and called for an immediate solution to the strike.
The Channel Tunnel's passenger train service, Eurostar, is facing capacity issues due to station limitations and a shortage of border control staff. However, new challengers are emerging, including startup Heuro, which plans to compete directly with Eurostar on the Amsterdam-Paris/London routes from 2028. Spanish startup Evolyn and Italian Railways' subsidiary QBuzz are also looking to challenge Eurostar on other routes. The competition could lead to more trains, lower fares, and increased choice for travelers. However, these challengers face obstacles such as procuring compatible high-speed trains and navigating complex regulations and infrastructure requirements. The expansion of high-speed rail in Europe is seen as crucial to meeting ambitious targets for increased rail usage and sustainability.