Shuttle cock-up

LAST WEEK I talked about the likely problems that Eurotunnel faces in not having a reservation system, and made reference to the problems that Sir Freddie Laker had with his original turn-up-and-take-off plan for Skytrain.

There is another example of a failed no-reservations service. When British Airways launched its Shuttle service to Scotland, it too was launched as a turn-up- and-take-off deal - passengers had to buy their tickets on the plane (flight attendants were too busy selling tickets to provide even a cup of coffee). Passengers were assured that if the designated aircraft filled up another was held in reserve, so everybody was sure of getting away.

The BA Shuttle quickly failed because, as with Skytrain, people needed to know they had a confirmed seat on a particular flight. I believe the Eurotunnel scheme will fail for the same reasons.