NS still suffering from Fyra withdrawal

Dutch rail operator NS recorded a loss of €43 million in 2013 as the company continues to look for a solution to the Fyra crisis.

A depreciation in the V250 train fleet and associated costs led to a loss last year – down from a €263 million profit in 2012.

The results represent an improving picture for the Dutch operator which announced a €76 million net loss in its half-year results last year following the withdrawal of high-speed Fyra last year and the subsequent dispute with manufacturer AnsaldoBreda.

Timo Huges, who replaced Bert Meerstadt as chief executive of NS in October last year, said 2013 had been a ‘year of confrontation’.

Although revenue remained static at around €4.6 billion, track access charges rose in 2013 from €551 million to €638 million.

NS said it also expected to be fined for missing targets set by the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment.

“2013 was a very tough year financially for NS. However, the balance sheet position of NS remains healthy, “said chief financial officer Engelhardt Robbe in a statement.

“Despite the uncertain external conditions we expect for 2014 again a positive result. The customer focus should contribute here. So we can continue to invest in new [sustainable] equipment and travel information for the traveler.”




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