Eurostar eyes Amsterdam

Plans for a high-speed direct rail service between London and Amsterdam moved up a gear last week after Eurostar introduced its new e320 train on the London  –  Brussels route.

Eurostar points out the e320s can operate on the European high-speed network beyond the UK, France and Belgium, putting the company in the final stages of preparation for the launch of a direct service to Amsterdam and Rotterdam. 

The arrival of the new trains is part of a £1bn programme of investment in the Eurostar fleet, stations and service which included the purchase of 17 of the e320s and refurbishing the original rolling stock.

The e320, which has been operating on the London  –  Paris route since November 2015, boasts 20% more capacity than the original Eurostar trains and offers wi-fi connectivity and 300hr of onboard entertainment. 

Its introduction on the London –  Brussels route also follows a major renovation of the Eurostar terminal in Brussels Midi, creating an expanded departure area and a more efficient check-in space.

Eurostar says facilities are being enhanced further with the introduction of facial recognition e-passport gate technology in time for the peak summer period.

www.eurostar.com

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