ИСТИНА

This research project is dedicated to analysing the competitive dynamics in the high-speed rail (HSR) market in Italy, where two main operators, Trenitalia and Italo, are active. With increasing competition in the HSR sector, companies strive to attract passengers by offering competitive prices and flexible ticket options, including low-cost second-class tickets with no possibility of changes. The study's primary aim is to determine how competition affects the availability of such tickets and to examine the interdependence of the two operators' actions regarding ticket provision strategies. The research focuses on understanding how and when low-cost tickets become available for purchase, which is important for railway companies developing demand management strategies and for the market management.