Travellers in Europe increasingly open to choosing trains over planes for short-haul journeys

A study published in May 2025 suggests that many travellers across Europe are increasingly open to choosing trains over planes for short-haul journeys, particularly when high-speed rail alternatives are available. A study commissioned by Hitachi Rail, based on responses from over 11,000 people in Europe and North America, found that around two-thirds of Europeans support banning short-haul flights if there is a viable train option.

The survey, conducted by SavantaComres, included participants from France, Spain, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States, and reflects a growing interest in rail travel as a practical and more sustainable way to move around the continent.

In countries like France and Spain, where policies restricting some short domestic flights are already in place or under discussion, support for these measures was particularly strong.

Train travel on the rise, flying set to plateau

Respondents indicated a general expectation to use trains more in the near future. While rail currently accounts for about 29% of long-distance travel (defined as trips of 2.5 hours or more), nearly half of respondents said they expect to increase their use of long-distance trains within five years.

By contrast, expectations for increased air travel were relatively low, with only a small net increase projected.

Even car travel, often viewed as convenient for shorter trips, is expected to grow at a slower pace than rail. Overall, the research points to a moderate but noticeable shift in travel habits.

Rail operators report record numbers

This growing interest is supported by actual usage trends. Rail operators across Europe have seen record-breaking passenger numbers in recent years. In 2023, France’s TGV and Ouigo services carried 123 million passengers. In 2024, Spain’s Renfe reached 25.9 million high-speed rail passengers, and Italy’s Frecciarossa services transported 45 million people.

These figures suggest that travellers are not just expressing interest in trains—they are actively choosing them.

Challenges for high-speed rail expansion

Despite this momentum, Europe’s high-speed rail network remains limited. Around 11,600 kilometres of high-speed track are currently in use. Compared to the continent’s extensive air travel infrastructure—with over 30,000 flights per day and hundreds of airports—rail has a smaller footprint, particularly for cross-border travel.

Many routes are still designed primarily around national networks, which can make international train journeys less convenient or direct.

Calls for greater investment in infrastructure

To address these limitations, industry groups such as the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) are advocating for increased investment.

CER has proposed a 49,400-kilometre high-speed rail network by 2050, which would require an estimated €546 billion in funding. If realised, such a network could support a shift in long-distance travel, potentially allowing rail to carry more than half of Europe’s long-distance passengers.

Public support appears to be aligned with these goals. Survey respondents expressed willingness to fund rail expansion through air or road taxes, and over 70% said they would use public transport more if connections were improved.

Improved connectivity key to success

Affordability, crowding, and ease of use were among the main barriers cited by respondents. Still, more than half said they would use public transport more even if fares increased—provided the system was better connected.

Industry leaders, such as the CEO of Italy’s FS Group (Trenitalia) have stressed that better coordination between national operators will be essential. Plans are already underway for new services, including a high-speed route between London and Paris scheduled for launch by 2029.

What this means for travellers

For those planning travel in Europe, the growing role of high-speed rail may offer more flexible and appealing alternatives to flying. While not all destinations are yet well served, options continue to expand.

With improved service and policy support, rail is becoming an increasingly realistic option for both leisure and business travellers.

As infrastructure improves and public interest grows, trains may become the preferred way to explore Europe—not just for environmental reasons, but for convenience and comfort as well.

The report.

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Travellers in Europe increasingly open to choosing trains over planes for short-haul journeys