Thalys high speed train passengers enjoy broadband Internet access

Nokia Siemens Networks has completed the installation of an onboard wireless broadband Internet access (Wi-Fi) network for Thalys, Europe’s first operator of high-speed trains to offer routes to four countries. More than six million passengers per year travel with Thalys.

“I am convinced we have chosen the right partners for this large-scale project. Broadband Wi-Fi Internet access is a key event for Thalys and will be the first ambitious development with the objective to reinforce Thalys’ position as an innovative company oriented towards generating new services for its customers.”

Olivier Poitrenaud,
CEO at Thalys International

Selected in 2007 as part of a consortium, Nokia Siemens Networks undertook to design and install the network and manage the services for five years. Twenty-six trains (Thalys’ whole fleet) will offer the Wi-Fi service on routes serving Paris, Brussels, Cologne and Amsterdam. Progress on the installation has seen passengers already benefiting from the Wi-Fi facility, with web browsing, email and VPN access, online newspapers, music downloads, tourist information and information about train services. It will be the first time that an international high-speed train operator provides this service across European borders.

Thalys was looking to add value for its customers by providing a continuous Wi-Fi service and a wide range of entertainment services on its trains. Nokia Siemens Networks and the other consortium members proposed an innovative end-to-end technical solution which includes onboard infrastructure, a ground-to-train communication system and an on-land network operation center.

Business challenges

  • Travellers demand Internet access on high-speed trains across European borders
  • Lack of technology enabling seamless Internet link in covered areas, where the satellite link is interrupted

Building market share

This solution complies with international train regulations and provides reliable, continuous services and broadband Internet connection, supported by all available backhaul solutions. For the Thalys solution, several backhaul methods are used including satellite, UMTS, HSDPA, and Wi-Fi when stationary in train stations.

Our solution

  • On board WLAN solution with connectivity to the network
  • End-to-end solution also includes installation, network operation and maintenance under a managed services contract
  • Management of special leased bandwidth for mobile operators along the train routes, antennas in the train for radio contact

For Thalys, the addition of these new services creates an enhanced travel experience for its customers, and aims at clearly differentiating Thalys from its competitors. Nokia Siemens Networks and the other consortium members have also developed a marketing plan with Thalys to promote the products and services under the popular and powerful Thalys brand.

Business benefits

  • First international high-speed railway company to deliver true broadband Internet access to its passengers
  • This new service positions Thalys as an innovative company and increases onboard service standard

Nokia Siemens Networks provides innovative solutions for railway operators to deliver seamless wireless access services with customized content. Given the large number of people traveling daily as a captive audience, this very attractive, focused commuter market is ideal for accessing virtually all forms of Wi-Fi service.