Planes cheaper than trains? It’s a MYTH, claims the UK Rail Delivery Group, which says travelling by train can be up to 80% cheaper than flying

Travelling by rail in the UK can be up to 80 per cent cheaper than flying, according to a new report.

A Rail Delivery Group study found that while in some cases airfare prices initially appear cheaper on certain routes, the final cost is often much higher once all the additional expenses are factored in.

The group said: ‘We’re often told that flying domestically is faster, cheaper, and more convenient. This myth is amplified by quick comparisons that typically ignore the length of time security checks take at airports, as well as ignoring add-on costs for luggage and seat selection.

‘Many don’t take into account the time it takes to get to and from the airport and forget that railway stations are in central convenient locations, while airports sit on the outskirts of our cities.’

According to the study, switching from plane to train could save you more than £200 for a journey from London to Edinburgh, once the additional cost of baggage and airport transfers are taken into account.

The Rail Delivery Group also highlighted that of the six domestic travel routes it looked at for the study – also including London to Glasgow, London to Newcastle, Manchester to Aberdeen, London to Manchester and Exeter to Edinburgh – travelling by plane takes longer door-to-door.

What’s more, it said, rail is up to 17 times greener when travelling for business across Britain compared to flying.

Jaqueline Starr, CEO at Rail Delivery Group, said: ‘For too long, the narrative has been that flying domestically is cheaper and faster. However, when you do a true cost comparison, rail travel can be considerably cheaper.

‘Rail travel offers a more affordable, sustainable, and convenient way to travel. Our research highlights the many advantages that rail travel offers to our customers when travelling within Britain.’

A Rail Delivery Group study found that while in some cases airfare prices initially appear cheaper on certain routes, the final cost is often much higher once all the additional expenses are factored in

David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said: ‘Time and again people claim that it’s cheaper and quicker to fly between London and Edinburgh or London and Newcastle. However, when you properly compare the cost and the time, then rail works out considerably quicker and cheaper.

‘It’s not just speed and value for money, of course. The value to the planet of taking the train is huge.

‘This research is clear that whichever way you look at it, travelling by train is simply better. Better for your wallet, a better use of your time and better for the environment.’