FS Italiane to Launch New High-Speed London Paris Train Service by 2029

Admin

May 6, 2025
3 min read

FS Italiane to Launch New High-Speed London Paris Train Service by 2029

Plans for a new high-speed London Paris train service are gathering momentum, as FS Italiane, part-owner of Avanti West Coast, sets out its ambition to enter the cross-Channel market by 2029. The move could end Eurostar’s long-standing dominance of the route, offering more choice to UK passengers and potentially lower prices. FS Italiane has set its sights on running trains inspired by its sleek Frecciarossa fleet, with designs already in development for a European expansion.

The company says it wants to offer a genuine alternative to flying, pointing to the environmental and customer benefits of rail. Its goal isn’t just about speed, but comfort, reliability and pushing modern rail into a more competitive space. Talks are already underway to explore collaboration with other operators, and FS Italiane has confirmed that it’s also looking at adding stops in places like Ashford, Kent, which could restore an international link dropped in 2020.

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While Eurostar remains the only operator using the Channel Tunnel for passenger services, the rules are slowly shifting. In fact, a recent regulatory change is set to open up space at London’s Temple Mills depot for new train operators – a key factor for any rival hoping to launch. It’s a development that’s not just about train slots, but the wider infrastructure needed to support competition.

As the demand for international rail travel increases, with routes like the one from St Pancras to Paris often at capacity, a second operator could give passengers more flexibility and reduce over-reliance on one provider. The plans are still subject to regulatory approval, but with growing political support for sustainable transport, the vision of boarding a new rival train to Paris in just four years might not be as far off as it sounds.

For more updates on high-speed travel, infrastructure and London’s evolving transport scene, visit EyeOnLondon and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

[Image Credit | Railmarket.com]