When is the train faster than the airplane?

Aside from any economic considerations, you’ve probably already wondered when the train becomes more efficient than the plane.

Trainline, the leading European app for booking trains and buses, is well positioned to highlight an eloquent observation: for trips under 2h30, the train proves to be up to twice as fast as the plane. An efficiency based on both practical and ecological advantages. Trainline aggregates offers from 270 rail and bus carriers across 45 countries. Its mission is very logically to promote the use of trains and buses, and while there might be a slight bias, this study remains very interesting because it is very well conducted.

Speed is no longer the trump argument

Although the duration of a flight may seem competitive, it does not reflect the total time necessary to complete an air journey. Trips to often distant airports, waiting before boarding, and security checks quickly add up. Conversely, train stations, strategically located in city centers, allow travelers to save valuable time.

The Trainline study confirms that in four out of five trips under 2h30, the train outpaces the plane in terms of speed. Considering only a 30-minute recommended lead time for boarding at the station, the train remains an obvious choice for faster travel while reducing your carbon footprint.

For trips under 2h30, the figures speak for themselves: trains establish themselves as the most efficient mobility solution. By choosing rail travel, passengers save time and money while contributing to a greener planet. The message is clear: to travel smart, travel by train.

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