Renfe withdraws Avlo trains from Barcelona–Madrid high-speed line

Spain's public train operator, Renfe, announced that it will withdraw all Avlo trains from the Barcelona–Madrid high-speed corridor.

The Avlo trains, which operated as the company’s low-cost service, will be fully replaced starting September 8.

Renfe will maintain the same service with identical frequencies, schedules, and prices, but using AVE trains instead.

Passengers who have already purchased an Avlo ticket for travel after September 7 will be reassigned to an AVE train under the same travel conditions.

If a passenger purchased the seat selection add-on, the cost will be refunded at no extra charge.

According to Renfe, the AVE model is better suited to the characteristics of the route and to the needs of the business profile—the average traveler on this line—since AVE trains are more comfortable and offer more space.

Renfe will also restore additional services such as a cafeteria, onboard catering, and a quiet car. Premium services will also be available, including access to club lounges, expanded dining options, and the Executive Lounge for business travelers.

The news also follows technical problems detected on an Avlo S106 train at the end of July, and an incident in early August when nearly 500 passengers were stranded for more than two hours without electricity at the entrance to Madrid Chamartín station.