Grand Central Pricing Shenanigans

[anme]

My view at present is that TOC's should have to decide AP allocations on a yearly basis, so that they can broadly reflect overall demand, but don't leave passengers in the lurch by withdrawing all AP's at the drop of a hat.

But the nature of advance purchase tickets is that passengers *are* left in the lurch when they run out. So if they are not able to book far in advance, they will pay more.

 

[yorksrob]

But the nature of advance purchase tickets is that passengers *are* left in the lurch when they run out. So if they are not able to book far in advance, they will pay more.

Yes, but generally we know what trains they are likely to be on and when. We know there's a risk that the best ones can be snapped up but we can mitigate that risk by checking at the appropriate time. It seems like there's more of a level playing field.

 

[anme]

Yes, but generally we know what trains they are likely to be on and when. We know there's a risk that the best ones can be snapped up but we can mitigate that risk by checking at the appropriate time. It seems like there's more of a level playing field.

It is not a level playing field if people who can plan journeys far in advance get cheaper tickets than those buying nearer the time - even on the same trains.

 

[yorksrob]

It is not a level playing field if people who can plan journeys far in advance get cheaper tickets than those buying nearer the time - even on the same trains.

True, but I like to think that you've got a chance if you do your homework !