time phasing

Network time phasing consists in repeating the same sequence of scheduled services (departure, arrival and stoppage times along the route) at regular intervals, for example, every hour.
Under this system, the departure and arrival times are exactly the same throughout the day to the minute, for all the stations on a particular line.
 

Very easy to remember, a time-phased timetable is a real advantage for passengers. Working in this way, Réseau Ferré de France is making railway transport a more attractive option and is offering its clients a more regular service and easier-to-read timetables.
 

Time phasing is also used as a device to help schedule investments designed to improve service. Based around the precise identification of market needs, the timetable is adjusted to demand, with particular emphasis on offering more connections. It should also mean better management of capacities, to the advantage of freight, by allowing more transportation of goods over the network.
 

The reorganisation of the railway system using the principle of time-phasing will be rolled-out in several stages, and on a zone-by-zone basis. Since December 2007, a pilot project has been running in the Rhône-Alps region, one of the busiest areas of the network. The system should be rolled out gradually over 3 years, ending in December 2010, including consultation and feedback procedures to allow any necessary adjustments to be made.