Seat availability

This indicator shows the chance of a passenger having a seat throughout their journey if they board at a peak time. In 2024, we took steps to improve our weekly forecasts of train deployment and passenger demand. For example, we take into account specific weeks based on factors such as holidays, events and works. Particularly in this area, we made great strides in 2024 in matching train deployment with passenger demand.

The focus on a robust plan in line with the deployable trains and personnel also helped to improve our score. In summer and autumn, we reinforced this by scheduling more seats than usual. The increase in work carried out on weekdays considerably limited transport capacity throughout the year. NS is becoming increasingly adept at robust planning around these works and informing passengers of expected crowding on trains. 

Number of crowded peak-hour trains per working week

This indicator measures the number of trains occupied above the ‘full’ standard. This means that all regular seats are occupied and four passengers per square metre are standing in the vestibules. When passenger demand and train availability are well matched in terms of scheduling and execution, there are few ‘crowded trains’, if any. The first half of 2024 saw an improvement compared to the end of 2023, thanks to better deployment of trains and staff. This made the train service more predictable and reduced train cancellations. Communication regarding low seat availability due to works also helped. In the second half of 2024, thanks mainly to the expanded rolling stock plan, we were able to reduce the number of trains occupied above the ‘full’ standard even in the event of disruptions.

Seat availability on the HSL 

During 2024, the frequency of trains between Amsterdam and Breda was reduced from five to four trains to compensate for speed limits. This ensured a more reliable service and, on balance, seat availability remained the same. However, the previously described works around Schiphol, Rotterdam and The Hague negatively affected seat availability on the HSL. The inflow of ICNG trains has increasingly matched the capacity level of the old ICR coaches. Resolving ICNG teething problems (including through software updates) also helped to improve journey reliability and seat availability.