Flying Still Beats the Train: Why Planes Remain the Smart Choice in France and Europe

Trains may be praised for being green, but when it comes to price, speed, and convenience—planes often come out on top.

France Tried to Ground Short Flights – But Did It Work?

In May 2023, France introduced a ban on domestic short-haul flights where a rail alternative under 2.5 hours exists. This includes routes like Paris to Lyon or Paris to Nantes, unless part of a connecting international flight. The policy aimed to cut carbon emissions and promote train travel. But its real-world impact has been modest.

Pros of the Short-Flight Ban:

• Reduces emissions on specific, high-traffic routes
• Encourages use of France’s strong TGV high-speed rail network
• Raises awareness of the climate impact of flying

Cons of the Short-Flight Ban:

• Applies to only a few routes, with minimal emissions reduction (about 2.6% of domestic flight emissions)
• Doesn’t impact connecting flights or international segments
• Inconveniences passengers needing early or late departures, or traveling from less connected cities
• Business travellers, in particular, lose flexibility and time-sensitive options
• Rail can’t match air on luggage allowances, loyalty perks, or ease of multi-leg bookings

Planes Are Still Often Cheaper

Despite rail subsidies, flights routinely offer lower fares. Studies show air travel in Europe is often 2–3 times cheaper than rail, especially when booked in advance.

Example:
A flight from Paris to Rome might cost €70 or less, while the train can cost €200+ with multiple transfers.

Flying Saves Time, Especially on Long Routes

Even factoring in airport security, flying is often faster for longer journeys.
For example:

• Paris to Rome: 2-hour flight vs. 11-hour train
• Marseille to London: 2.5-hour flight vs. complex, multi-leg train trip
• Lyon to Barcelona: 1.5-hour flight vs. 6-hour train with possible changes

Trains do offer city-center arrivals, but planes still win for overall time savings on most medium to long routes.

Airlines Offer More Value and Reach

• Loyalty programs, like Flying Blue and Avios, give flyers perks and savings
• Planes reach more destinations, especially in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and North Africa
• Air travel gives flexible booking options and easier transfers across countries

Trains, while improving, still face price complexity, limited night service, and poor international coordination.

France’s 2023 short-haul flight ban had good intentions, but limited effect. Until Europe addresses rail pricing, infrastructure gaps, and inter-country coordination, planes will remain.

For now, the skies still make more sense than the tracks.