Almost two thirds of long-distance journeys in Britain are cheaper by plane than train, forcing travellers to prioritise either environmental or cost concerns, Times research has found.
Analysis of fare data on Trainline and Skyscanner, two online booking portals, found flying to be cheaper than rail in 60 per cent of cases. Critics said that travellers were being forced to fly because of the growing cost of train travel in Britain.
Commuters are preparing for a 2.8 per cent rise in rail fares in January. Annual fare increases are pegged to the retail price index inflation in July, while airlines set their prices based on demand and the cost of fuel.
On average, air fares have remained relatively consistent, or fallen, since 2015, widening the