Despite occasional media focus on disruptions and strikes, 19% of business travellers in North America and 58% in major European markets now opt for trains for domestic travel, according to a new survey. The trend is spurred by new routes, increased productivity and an increasing focus on reducing environmental impact.

The research by global business travel management platform TravelPerk spotlights the increasing shift towards train travel for business travellers across major international markets, especially in regions with advanced rail networks like Europe. As productivity, sustainability and comfort become top priorities, trains are emerging as a globally preferred alternative to air travel.

Among the survey highlights:

Productivity gains make trains an attractive option

• 32% of respondents noted the unique productivity benefits trains offer. As a result, many companies are increasingly supporting rail travel, recognizing its dual benefits of improving both productivity and sustainability.

Sustainability incentives drive global shift

• The research surveyed 4,000 business travellers and identified a global trend toward sustainable travel options. Over half (51%) of the surveyed companies now incentivize employees to choose greener options such as trains, pointing to a shift in corporate travel strategies globally. Environmental awareness is growing, with 36% of respondents recognizing that train travel is better for the environment compared to other modes.

European rail infrastructure leads the way

• The shift toward train travel is particularly strong in Europe, where new high-speed routes and improved rail infrastructure are changing how business travelers manage domestic and cross-border trips. Although air travel remains common, 29% of respondents noted that trains, while sometimes slower, often save time by avoiding airport delays and security lines. This makes train travel an increasingly competitive option, especially in regions with frequent connections between business hubs.

Challenges remain, but the trend is clear

Despite the benefits, challenges like poor Wi-Fi (55%) and noise (48%) remain barriers to productivity. However, the overall global shift toward more productive and greener travel options is clear, concludes TravelPerk, as companies increasingly prioritize sustainability and long-term environmental benefits over short-term disruptions.

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