The new feature reflects changing travel habits and growing demand for more flexible and sustainable transport choices while making trip planning simpler and more convenient.
As a global travel platform used by millions of people each month, Skyscanner continues to adapt to evolving traveler expectations. The company is expanding price comparisons and transport options to create a more seamless and personalized planning experience. The addition of rail is a key step toward a more multimodal platform where travelers can organize their journeys in one place without switching between websites or tabs.
While flying remains the best option for many long-distance trips, rail is increasingly perceived as a strong alternative on shorter routes. Train travel offers advantages such as city-center departures, more relaxed boarding, generous baggage allowances and the opportunity to enjoy scenic routes. Rail travel also typically produces significantly lower emissions per passenger kilometer than air travel, especially on electrified lines powered by renewable energy.
Research commissioned by Skyscanner highlights the shift in traveler preferences. On average, one in four travelers wants to see train options alongside flights, and 21% say they would be more likely to choose rail if they could compare it directly with air fares. Sustainability is also an important factor, with 81% of travelers saying it matters to them, although many still find it difficult to make more environmentally conscious travel choices.
The new feature aims to simplify decision-making by displaying travel times, routes and prices in one place. When rail is a practical alternative — typically for journeys under eight hours, either direct or with a short connection — train options appear alongside flight results, allowing travelers to compare at a glance and select the best option.
Rail search is currently being tested on selected routes in the UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, the Netherlands and South Korea. Travelers in Europe, Asia and Australia may already see train options, with journeys searchable up to 90 days in advance. Additional routes are expected to be added in the coming months.
Bookings are completed through partners including Trip.com, which works with major rail operators such as Eurostar, Renfe, Deutsche Bahn and Italo. The service is currently available for ticket purchases in several countries including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK.
According to Skyscanner, the rail-versus-air comparison can be particularly useful for travelers attending events or visiting specific destinations, where transport options and costs are not always immediately clear. The feature is already available on desktop and mobile web, with app integration planned soon.
Tags: Skyscanner, rail-versus-air
