Delays and canceled trains

The aim of the transport plan is to improve service reliability. In order to make the schedule more reliable, we have to consider the reality of the situation (engineering works, number of passengers, equipment, etc.). Every day, we transport a growing number of passengers and, as a result, some trains have to stop at stations for longer.
There are other factors in addition to scheduling that also influence the length of a journey (various engineering works incidents, equipment problems, etc.). In any case, we are constantly working to improve punctuality.

When engineering works are planned, the journey planner (on this page) or the SNCB app already take these works into account and provide a detailed timetable. These timetables are updated daily, and these tools will suggest an alternative route, if required. For more information, visit the Travel Information page.

In case of engineering works or disruption to the rail network, it may be that SNCB organises a replacement bus service. To travel on board these buses, just show your official, valid travel ticket (ticket or season ticket).

In case of engineering works or disruption to the rail network, always make sure that you follow the route suggested by the journey planner (on this page) or by the SNCB app. If you decide to travel using an alternative route, you will have to buy another travel ticket.

Wherever possible, we try to maintain connecting services in case of train delays. However, there is a possibility that the connecting service is not able to wait. Consult the journey planner (on this page) or the SNCB app for more information.

Engineering works on infrastructure may be planned for a number of reasons:

1. Innovation
   To guarantee maximum safety on the rail network, new technologies need to be regularly implemented. These new technologies make it possible to increase the reliability of rolling stock, the safety of your journeys and improve our timetabling services.
   
   
2. Maintenance
   Rails and points are subject to intense demands, which cause wear and tear and damage. To optimise the infrastructure and monitor rail and electrical installations, a maintenance service works daily to guarantee the best possible travel conditions.
   
   
3. Repair work
   In the event of an incident, repairs to the electrical system or the railway are sometimes necessary. These may take place at any time of the day or night, 7 days a week, to restore rail traffic as quickly as possible.

For more information, visit the Infrabel site.

Throughout Europe, there are few rail services that cross capital cities. In most of these cities the line terminates at their main train stations. For example, in Paris, London, Madrid, Frankfurt or Milan, to cross the city, you have to use the tram, bus or underground.

In Belgium, the rail network crosses Brussels via the North-Midi junction. Every hour, there are more than 90 trains and 50,000 passengers who pass through it… and all on only 6 tracks. This line is one of the densest rail junctions in the world.

But this strength in our transport system is also a weakness. In case of delays, suspended train services or engineering works, all the trains travelling on the lines, which cross this junction, have to vary their speed or be re-routed, as well as the trains travelling behind them. In case of traffic interruption (even if it is short-lived), the problem mushrooms on all of the lines converging through the Brussels North-Midi junction and the whole of the rail network may be impacted.

Some works can only be performed when there are no trains operating. That’s why most of the works are undertaken when traffic is low (for example, at weekends or at night). Other reasons affect the scheduling of works, such as the weather forecast, the allocation of the workforce or the availability of cranes and plant.

However, during large-scale works, closing certain sections of the line is a requirement for reasons of safety. Where this is the case, re-routed services are set up ensuring that every possible precaution is taken to limit the impact on your travel.

Did you have a delay when travelling on the national train network? We’re very sorry about that. You can apply for compensation for any inconvenience suffered, subject to certain conditions.

For details and the compensation application forms, please visit the Compensation page.

The aim of SNCB is to get passengers to their final destination. Only if the last train is cancelled or if you miss a connection to the last train to get to your final destination, SNCB will work out an alternative solution. A bus, a shared taxi van or an individual taxi can then be a possible solution.

Was your last train cancelled or did you miss your connection due to a train delay? If so, please report this to the train conductor or the station staff. Can't find anyone? Then call the Contact Centre (02 528 28 28 , 7 days a week, until 9:30 p.m.). A solution will be found to get you to your final destination. If this is not possible, e.g. by bus or an alternative train route, they will order a taxi for you.

Only if the last train is cancelled or if you miss a connection to the last train to get to your final destination, SNCB will work out an alternative solution. Station staff will hand out taxi vouchers to stranded passengers. With these, you can pay for the taxi. However, if this is not available at the station, or if there are no station staff present, you can order and pay for the taxi yourself and then request a refund via this customer service form within 15 calendar days. Keep your original train ticket and proof of payment for the taxi.