Rail passengers may no longer be eligible for compensation unless their train journey faces a delay of at least 30 minutes, according to new government considerations. Presently, most train operators refund 25% of the ticket cost for delays of 15 to 29 minutes. Typically, a delay of 30 to 59 minutes entitles passengers to 50% compensation, increasing to a full ticket refund for delays exceeding an hour.

Under the potential new regulations, passengers would only receive compensation for delays exceeding 30 minutes, with automatic refunds eliminating the need for online “delay repay” form submissions and ticket proof requirements. The Times reported that these proposals are part of a plan to implement a unified compensation system to replace current schemes.

As private rail contracts expire, UK rail companies are in the process of nationalization, aiming to bring all major operators under public ownership by October 2027. Once all rail compensations are nationalized, taxpayer funds will cover the costs of compensation instead of private operators.

In the 2023-24 financial year, approximately £138 million was paid out to rail passengers. A Department for Transport spokesperson declined to comment on the reported proposals, emphasizing the government’s commitment to revamping the rail industry to restore public trust in punctual services.

Trainline highlighted that passengers are missing out on over £80 million annually in compensation for delays, prompting a petition for the government to enable simplified “one-click” claims for online ticket purchasers. Trainline’s CEO, Jody Ford, emphasized the need for effortless compensation processes to align with advancements in ticket purchasing convenience, urging industry and government collaboration to implement practical changes such as “one-click” delay repay options.