Train schedules
When drawing up the train schedule, we do our best to estimate the number of expected passengers.
Scheduling trains based on the expected number of passengers
We use information from conductors, passenger counts, OV-chipkaart data, rush hour reports, passenger growth prognoses and holiday periods, for example, to estimate the number of passengers on all of the routes. We then use these data to draw up the most optimal train schedule for the traveler.
Rush hour train schedules
When scheduling rush hour trains, we aim to offer travelers a seat when they must travel for longer than 15 minutes. During rush hour, we calculate a number of standing passengers as well, just as in the bus, tram or metro, as the rush hour is the busiest period of the day: we transport hundreds of thousands of passengers in just a few hours' time.
Situation different from expected
No matter how perfect the schedule for rolling stock is in theory, unfortunately the situation develops differently than expected. For example, a signal or junction disruption can result in the first departing train to be fuller than usual. We are also occasionally forced to dispatch trains or train types other than that scheduled to deal with defects, nighttime engineering work or disruptions.
Spreading throughout the train
Often, many people will try to board the train at the same door or wagon, causing the train to be full only at the back or the front. And of course, some days are unexpectedly busier than usual.