Air Canada has recently unveiled an innovative air-to-rail program, revolutionizing the travel experience for passengers flying to Europe. The Canadian airline has collaborated with major European rail systems, including Austria’s ÖBB, France’s SNCF Voyageurs, Germany’s Deutsche Bahn, and Switzerland’s Swiss Federal Railways.
This strategic partnership allows Air Canada passengers to seamlessly book intermodal rail connections when planning their European journeys. Travelers can now conveniently purchase train tickets connecting them to their final destinations directly through Air Canada’s website. The program aims to enhance travel flexibility and sustainability by integrating air and rail services.
Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President of Revenue and Network Planning for Air Canada, highlighted the significance of this initiative. He stated, “In offering easy onward airport connections with the national rail systems in France, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, we are creating intermodal hubs and opening the door for customers to reach stations at major cities and popular destinations throughout these countries. Moreover, by facilitating the use of rail for the short-haul segments of our customers’ journeys, we can provide sustainable travel options when touring Europe.”
The air-to-rail program enables passengers to access hundreds of smaller and mid-sized European cities seamlessly. Travelers can book a single ticket for both their flight and train journey, streamlining the booking process. Additionally, passengers can check in for both their flight and train in advance. The integration of these modes of transportation enhances the overall travel experience, providing convenience and flexibility.
The program also includes provisions for unforeseen circumstances, such as delayed or canceled flights. In such situations, passengers can easily reschedule their train tickets without any complications, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
This development builds on the existing collaboration between Star Alliance and German rail company Deutsche Bahn, which became the inaugural intermodal travel partner in August 2022. United Airlines also joined forces with Deutsche Bahn in the latest phase of this partnership.
Air Canada’s expansion into the air-to-rail sector includes plans to launch a codeshare on Deutsche Bahn’s Lufthansa Express Rail in 2024. This move reflects the airline’s commitment to providing comprehensive travel solutions for its passengers. The collaboration with Deutsche Bahn enhances connectivity and opens up new possibilities for passengers traveling within Europe.
As the summer travel season approaches, Air Canada is well-positioned to offer an enhanced travel experience to Europe. The airline has already filed its peak summer 2024 flying schedule, solidifying its status as a major transatlantic hub. The Toronto and Montreal hubs are expected to play a pivotal role, ranking as the third and fifth largest transatlantic hubs, respectively.
In conclusion, Air Canada’s air-to-rail program represents a significant step forward in the integration of air and rail travel services. The seamless booking process, combined check-in procedures, and flexibility during unforeseen circumstances contribute to an improved travel experience for passengers heading to Europe.