Belgian Railways SNCB Ends Onboard Ticket Sales From July to Target Fraud and Aggression Towards Staff

Why It Matters

Eliminating onboard sales clarifies fare rules, reduces confrontations, and protects staff, while tighter enforcement aims to recoup tens of millions lost to fraud each year.

Key Takeaways

• Onboard ticket sales end July 1, 2026.
• Only 1.5% of tickets sold onboard currently.
• Aggression incidents rose to 2,602 in 2025.
• Fines start at $98, up to $550 for repeat.
• Inspections increase 50% to curb fare evasion.

Pulse Analysis

European rail operators have long recognized that on‑train ticket sales invite fare evasion and operational friction. Belgium’s NMBS/SNCB, which already sees more than 90% of its tickets sold via apps, websites, and machines, is aligning with this norm by ending the legacy service. The move reflects a broader digital transformation across the sector, where contactless and mobile ticketing not only streamline revenue collection but also provide richer data for demand forecasting and capacity planning.

The decision is driven as much by safety concerns as by financial ones. In 2025, SNCB recorded 2,602 aggression incidents—an average of seven daily confrontations—most stemming from passengers lacking a valid ticket. By eliminating the point‑of‑sale that often triggers disputes, the railway hopes to defuse tension. Coupled with a 50% increase in ticket inspections and a tiered fine structure starting at $98 and rising to $550 for repeat offenders, the policy targets the tens of millions of euros lost annually to fare evasion, converting that loss into enforceable revenue.

Looking ahead, SNCB’s exploration of access‑control gates at stations signals a shift toward physical barriers that complement digital enforcement. Such infrastructure, common in high‑traffic metros, can dramatically lower evasion rates but requires capital investment and coordination with local authorities. For the broader rail industry, Belgium’s approach underscores the growing priority of protecting frontline staff while leveraging technology and stricter penalties to safeguard revenue streams in an increasingly competitive mobility market.