High-Speed Rail as a Sustainable Alternative to Air Travel with an Example of Travelling Between Copenhagen and Stockholm

As European cities continue to expand their interconnectivity, High-Speed Rail (HSR) emerges as a pivotal element in sustainable transportation planning. This paper explores the viability of HSR as both a competitive and integrative transport mode, with a specific focus on the route between Copenhagen and Stockholm. The current air travel option for this route takes about one hour of flight time. However, this does not account for the additional 1.5 h required for airport check-in and security, plus the commute from Stockholm's Arlanda Airport, located 46 km away, to the city center. The entire journey from Copenhagen to Stockholm, therefore, effectively consumes about half a day when considering all transit and waiting times. Conversely, the existing rail connection between these two cities takes approximately 5.5 h, and car travel extends to about 7.5 h, including the costs associated with the Øresund Bridge toll and Stockholm city center road tolls. This paper proposes that a dedicated HSR link could dramatically reduce ground travel time to a competitive range of approximately 2.5 to 3 h. By analyzing current infrastructure, passenger flow data, and economic implications, the study assesses the potential shifts in passenger preferences and the resulting impacts on both the aviation and automotive sectors. This analysis includes environmental considerations, where HSR offers significant reductions in carbon emissions compared to air travel. Additionally, the paper discusses logistical and economic challenges involved in integrating HSR with existing transport networks and evaluates the potential for HSR to enhance regional accessibility and economic development. The study also examines potential financing models for HSR development, exploring public–private partnerships, government funding, and European Union subsidies as viable funding sources. Furthermore, this paper addresses the social implications of HSR, including its ability to reduce travel-related stress and increase productivity among commuters. It also considers the broader geopolitical implications, such as HSR's role in promoting EU cohesion and reducing dependency on fossil fuels in line with the European Green Deal. This comprehensive evaluation aims to position HSR as a transformative force in European transport, advocating for policy shifts that favor long-term sustainability over short-term convenience. By doing so, it seeks to contribute to the ongoing discussions on transport infrastructure development, encouraging a move towards more sustainable and integrated transport solutions in Europe. The paper concludes by proposing policy recommendations for governments and international bodies to support the expansion of HSR networks across the continent, highlighting the critical role of comprehensive planning and cross-border cooperation in realizing these ambitions. By providing a detailed comparative analysis of HSR with existing transportation options and emphasizing its benefits in terms of efficiency, environmental impact, and social value, this study aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders about the strategic importance of investing in HSR as a cornerstone of future European mobility strategies.