French petition challenges night train cuts
A petition opposing the planned cancellation of Paris–Berlin and Paris–Vienna Nightjet services has surpassed 63,000 signatures, intensifying pressure on Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) and the French government ahead of the scheduled withdrawal on 14 December 2025.
Advocacy group Oui au train de nuit says public backing is mounting to keep the two overnight routes, currently operated under Österreichische Bundesbahnen (ÖBB)’s Nightjet brand with SNCF. ÖBB has confirmed the services will end from 14 December 2025 after France withdrew public service obligation funding, calling the connections unviable without continued support. “Night trains can only run with international partners,” the operator said.
Why it matters
The Paris–Vienna and Paris–Berlin sleepers provide lower-emission, long-distance links used by business travellers and tourists. Environmental and passenger groups argue the cuts clash with climate ambitions and remove a flagship cross-border option just as interest in night trains has revived. Campaigners continue to lobby the transport ministry and SNCF leadership to reverse the decision.
“Ending these routes would be a step backwards,” the petition organisers argue.
Outlook
The current timeline leaves roughly two months for political or funding solutions before the 2025 timetable change. Neither SNCF nor the French government has tabled a replacement plan; ÖBB says other Nightjet routes such as Vienna–Brussels will continue. Petition organisers intend to deliver signatures to the transport minister and SNCF before year-end.