SNCF launch high-speed WiFi on Paris-Lyon TGV line

As of 15 December 2016, free high-speed WiFi will become available on the Paris-Lyon TGV line as part of a wider project to equip the entire TGV fleet with connectivity by the end of 2017.

According to SNCF, TGV Connect free WiFi has become available to passengers travelling on the TGV route between Paris and Lyon on selected services. The project is part of a roll-out to equip the entire TGV fleet with high-speed internet connectivity by the end of 2017, including 300 trains and 2400 coaches. The fleet will be fitted out with a wireless internet connectivity solution, with design, software and hardware and system supervision provided by 21net and project management, installation and system remote maintenance provided by ENGIE Ineo.

300 TGV trains to be fitted with high-speed WiFi by end of 2017

The solution, based on a flexible open platform, allows integration of both content and services in addition to on-board WiFi using bandwidth from 3G and 4G cellular networks.

Two WiFi aerials have been fitted per deck per coach in addition to external aerials. Furthermore, SNCF together with Orange installed 200 base stations along the Paris – Lyon route ensuring full coverage. “We had to install a base station every 2-3 km along the tracks to ensure continuity of service between Paris and Lyon,” said a spokesperson from Orange France.

According to SNCF, a fair usage policy will be implemented allowing passengers to spend over an hour on social networks or send 60 emails with attachments.

By the end of 2017 around 300 trains will provide the service thanks to 124 km of fibre optic cabling and 18,000 antennas.