Spain Encourages Travelers to Choose Trains Over Planes for Short Domestic Journeys

If you plan to visit Spain, expect to see more train options instead of flights on shorter routes.

The coalition government has recently unveiled a strategy to prohibit specific short-haul domestic flights that can be substituted with train journeys lasting under 2.5 hours, as reported first by Euronews.

This proposed initiative is part of Spain's 2050 climate action strategy aimed at lowering carbon emissions, with a significant exception for connecting flights at hub airports on international routes. This follows France's recent ban on specific short-haul flights where train alternatives exist, which began in 2023.

It remains uncertain when these measures will take effect or how many flights will be impacted in Spain, where 9 percent of all greenhouse gases in the European Union are produced. Nevertheless, according to Politico EU, the focus will be on flights linking cities like Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Seville, and Madrid, routes currently serviced by Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa.

The proposed initiative has already faced significant backlash from certain officials in Spain, who argue that it would hinder business and trade.

Nonetheless, some industry analysts do not foresee major disruptions for vacation travelers.

“For the majority of travelers, the effect of this is likely minimal,” says Seth Miller, an industry expert and founder of the aviation website PaxEx.Aero, in an interview with Dinogo. “In many instances, airlines will continue operating flights on shorter routes to accommodate connecting passengers arriving from abroad. However, if you’re planning to travel between multiple cities in Spain and France, you might discover fewer options for intercity travel once you arrive. Personally, I believe this is acceptable, as trains typically offer a more enjoyable journey.”

As reported by Euronews, the proposed legislation from Spain’s two political factions—the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party and Sumar—might also limit the use of private jets. A 2023 report from Greenpeace revealed that over 45,000 private jets took off from a Spanish airport in 2022, emitting 243,000 tons of carbon dioxide—an astonishing 92 percent increase compared to 2021. The report further indicated that 8 percent of all private flights in Europe originate from Spain.

Comparable initiatives throughout Europe

While the proposed ban on specific short-haul flights may be seen as largely symbolic, travelers can expect more initiatives aimed at sustainability as Europe strives to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

By 2026, the European Union will eliminate the free allowances currently granted to airlines to offset their carbon emissions. Consequently, airlines will be required to pay for their emissions, and these costs are likely to be passed on to consumers.

Additionally, some countries are working on legislation designed to deter air travel. Beginning in 2025, Denmark will impose a “green tax” of 100 Danish marks (approximately $14.60) on air travelers to support the country’s shift toward sustainable aviation practices.

German airline Lufthansa has also launched “green fares” on select routes across Europe and internationally. These fares incorporate the use of sustainable aviation fuel and contribute to environmental protection initiatives.

Germany is also promoting train travel. In 2021, Germany’s Aviation Association and its national railway operator, Deutsche Bahn, entered into a partnership to enhance high-speed train services, making train travel a more convenient option for passengers on certain routes. The two organizations estimate that the increased rail services could provide around 20 percent of air travelers—approximately 4.3 million passengers each year—with the choice to travel by train instead. This shift could potentially lower carbon dioxide emissions from domestic air travel by about 17 percent.

As France and potentially Spain implement bans on shorter flights, it encourages other nations to consider similar measures.

“Being the pioneer in adopting such a policy carries significant risks,” says Miller. “However, with France and now Spain shifting short-haul travel towards trains instead of planes, it can demonstrate to other governments that such a transition is achievable without severe negative consequences.”