TRAVEL · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Virgin Launches International Trains, Aiming to Cut Emissions and Boost Loyalty Points
WHY IT MATTERS
If Virgin’s trains attract enough passengers, the shift could reduce carbon emissions from short‑haul flights and strengthen the airline’s loyalty program, but only if fares are competitive.
What happened
Virgin has announced a new international train service that will run between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. The move is intended to increase competition on the rail corridor, potentially drawing passengers away from short‑haul flights.
Skift notes that the environmental benefit hinges on the trains attracting enough travelers to offset the higher costs of rail travel. Virgin’s strategy also includes offering loyalty points to passengers, providing an additional incentive to choose the new service.
The company’s success will depend on whether ticket prices can be lowered to compete with air travel while maintaining profitability.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Virgin’s New International Trains Could Cut Emissions, Fares — and Fuel Its Loyalty Program
Skift · Tasmin Lockwood · Discovery only; publisher copyright and subscription terms apply