Delayed trains are a familiar frustration for many commuters. Not all train routes are equal, though, when it comes to punctuality. The most recent NS half-year report shows that some routes, particularly in the west of the Netherlands, deal with delays far more often than others. In this article, we'll name the routes where the chance of delay is greatest, and what causes them.
What counts as a delayed train?
The half-year reports track statistics on the punctuality of trains. This matters because NS has committed to a minimum level of punctuality, in other words the percentage of trains that must run on time.
A train is counted as delayed if it is five minutes or more behind schedule. With a delay of 30 minutes or more, and under certain conditions, you may qualify for (partial) compensation. The amount of the compensation depends on the type of season ticket, the kind of train ticket and the length of the delay.
The Top 10 Most Delayed Routes
Here is an overview of the top ten routes where the chance of delay is greatest, with rounded percentages for delayed and on-time departures:
- Rotterdam Centraal - Tilburg (31% late / 69% on time)
- Den Haag Centraal - Amsterdam Centraal (26% late / 74% on time)
- Rotterdam Centraal - Breda (26% late / 74% on time)
- Rotterdam Centraal - Amsterdam Centraal (23% late / 77% on time)
- Amsterdam Centraal - Rotterdam Centraal (21% late / 79% on time)
- Amsterdam Centraal - Den Haag Centraal (19% late / 81% on time)
- Breda - Tilburg (19% late / 81% on time)
- Schiphol - Rotterdam Centraal (19% late / 81% on time)
- Breda - Rotterdam Centraal (17% late / 83% on time)
- Schiphol - Amsterdam Centraal (15% late / 85% on time)
Causes of Delay on These Routes
These routes have one important thing in common: they all partly use high-speed lines (HSL). Switching between different voltages and signalling systems between the main rail network and the HSL often causes technical problems.
On top of that, international trains also run on the HSL, and these can bring in delays from abroad. The tight scheduling means that even small delays quickly lead to chain delays.
Conclusion
Although NS strives for punctuality, the chance of delay is greater on routes that partly use high-speed lines and international trains. It's important for passengers to be aware of their rights regarding compensation for delays. Travelling by train can be challenging, but knowing where you stand when delays happen can help reduce the frustration.