New Direct Air Route from Lyon to Rennes Set to Launch This Summer, But Prices Spark Debate
Lyon, May 17 – A new seasonal direct air route connecting Lyon and Rennes will be inaugurated this summer by the French airline Twin Jet. The flights, operating from July 20 to August 28, will link Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport with Rennes, promising a travel time of less than two hours. However, the initial ticket prices, significantly higher than train alternatives, are already drawing scrutiny.
Flight Schedule and Passenger Benefits
Twin Jet will operate flights from Monday to Friday. Departures from Lyon are scheduled for 4:30 PM, arriving in Rennes at 6:10 PM. Return flights will leave Rennes at 6:40 PM, landing in Lyon at 8:20 PM. Passengers departing from Lyon will also benefit from fast-track access through security controls at the airport, a perk highlighted by Twin Jet.
Ticket Prices Exceeding 300 Euros One-Way
The main point of contention revolves around the cost of tickets. Advertised prices for a one-way journey between Lyon and Rennes start at over 300 euros (from 312.79 euros from Lyon to Rennes, and 321.76 euros in the opposite direction). For a round trip during a week in July, standard fares can exceed 600 euros, with flexible options potentially reaching over 1,000 euros.
These prices are considered exorbitant, especially when compared to train travel. A direct TGV (high-speed train) journey between Lyon and Rennes on the same dates can be found for less than 200 euros for a round trip, with a travel time of approximately four hours. Booking further in advance can reduce train fares to around 100 euros for a round trip.
Targeting Business Clientele
The significant price difference suggests that Twin Jet’s new service is primarily aimed at business travelers who are willing to pay a premium for reduced travel time. The airline’s strategy appears to prioritize speed and convenience over cost-effectiveness for the general public.
The viability of this new route will depend on whether it attracts a sufficient number of passengers willing to bear the high cost, especially given the existing, more affordable train options and growing environmental concerns regarding air travel.
Context of Domestic Air Travel and Environmental Impact
The introduction of this new domestic air route also brings to light ongoing discussions about air travel within France, particularly for routes well-served by high-speed rail. There have been calls and even legislative measures to restrict domestic flights between cities that can be connected by train in under 2.5 hours, largely due to environmental considerations.
While the Lyon-Rennes route is a new offering, its potential environmental impact and the justification for its high pricing in a market with established rail links are likely to remain subjects of public and environmental scrutiny.
The airline has yet to comment on the pricing strategy beyond the initial announcements, and it remains to be seen how the public will respond to this new, albeit expensive, travel option between two major French cities.
Source: lyoncapitale.fr
