
SNCF Voyageurs has witnessed remarkable growth, fueled by the French population’s renewed enthusiasm for train travel and a forward-thinking strategy. With plans for international expansion, technological innovation, and an enhanced service offering, the railway giant aims to solidify its position as Europe’s leading rail operator amidst growing competition.
Record-Breaking Success for SNCF
Five years after transitioning to an independent company, SNCF Voyageurs has achieved impressive milestones and laid out ambitious plans for the future. In 2024, the company set new records in passenger numbers, capitalizing on an unprecedented “train appetite” among the French. Christophe Fanichet, CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, highlighted this success during a press conference: “We have built a robust, profitable company that continues to grow while making sustainable and worthwhile investments.”
Regional trains, known as TERs and often called “everyday trains,” exemplify this upward trend. In just one year, TER ridership surged by 10%, marking a 33% increase compared to 2019. “Sixty percent of our passengers are under 35 years old. We are truly an activity of the future,” said Jean-Aimé Mougenot, Director of TER. The company now aims for annual growth of 4–5%, equivalent to approximately 70,000 additional daily passengers.
Beyond France’s borders, SNCF is leveraging international markets to fuel its expansion. In 2024, its TGVs transported 163 million passengers across Europe, reflecting a 4% rise from the previous year and a 14% increase compared to 2019. Alain Krakovitch, Director of TGV and Intercités, expressed the company’s ambitious vision: “By 2030, we aim to serve 200 million customers, reaching 240 million by 2034. This would represent a 50% increase within a decade.”
Europe as a Strategic Growth Platform
Currently, 22% of SNCF’s traffic and a third of its revenue are generated outside France. The company’s goal is to raise these figures to 30% while doubling its international revenue. Initiatives like the expansion of Ouigo in Spain and its planned debut in Italy by 2026 underscore this aggressive strategy. “We won’t play defense; we’ll be on the offensive,” Christophe Fanichet declared.
To support these ambitions, SNCF plans to significantly boost its passenger capacity. By 2034, the seating capacity of TGVs is projected to grow by 25%, including a 15% increase within France. A critical component of this growth is the introduction of the new TGV M, expected to roll out by the end of 2024 after several delays. “What matters most isn’t the number of trains but the kilometers they cover and the number of seats they provide,” noted Alain Krakovitch.
With a clear focus on sustainable growth and international expansion, SNCF Voyageurs is positioning itself as a global leader in rail travel, shaping the future of mobility in Europe and beyond.