The present invention relates to the preparation of trifluoroethylene (VF3 or TrFE) by hydrogenolyzis of chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) in the gaseous phase over a group VIII metal catalyst deposited on a support. This method can be used to obtain VF3 in an economical manner in conditions which minimize the risk of explosion of this molecule. Using a catalyst containing a group VIII metal and, more specifically, containing Pd deposited on a support and a specific series of steps of separation and purification makes it possible to obtain excellent CTFE conversion rates and high selectivity in VF3 at atmospheric pressure and at low temperatures.