Can the rail-air solution take off ?

As environmental concerns loom large, shorter flights are being called into question and passengers encouraged to take the train instead

ALEX MCWHIRTER CONSUMER CHAMPION AND RAIL EXPERT

When Lufthansa started running its ‘Donald Duck’ train between Dusseldorf and Frankfurt 30 years ago, Germany’s national airline couldn’t have imagined how it would develop. One of the first highspeed trains, nicknamed for its distinctive yellow and white paint job, its original purpose was to offer airline customers an alternative connection.

Today Lufthansa and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have become world leaders in developing rail-air connections (though many other airlines’ customers can also use DB’s rail-air services). In 2022, Deutsche Bahn joined Star Alliance, the only rail operator to be an alliance member.

Rail-air has now evolved from a special train for airline passengers to customers taking regular scheduled services. Multimodal transport solutions are becoming increasingly vital to reduce pressure on airport capacity and provide more sustainable options.

ON THE RIGHT TRACK

The benefits are also increasing. Travellers can now buy a combined rail and flight ticket, which gives them protection from missed connections throughout the journey. Other benefits include the potential for earning extra miles (for Star members), while first and business class passengers can travel first class with DB and use the DB lounge at Frankfurt airport.