Star Alliance and ÖBB Partner to Boost Train-Flight Integration
A new agreement between the Star Alliance and Austria’s train provider ÖBB aims to improve connections between flights and train services. Starting departing via Vienna's main terminal, passengers will be able to take high-speed trains directly to major urban hubs such as Graz, Linz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. The aim is to create smoother travel experiences and reduce the need for short regional flights by offering rail alternatives.
As a part of the partnership, also passengers will be able to purchase one combined ticket for flight + train journey. They can also register through the website or visit designated offices to collect travel documents for each segment of their trip. The system is based on the existing AIRail service, launched in 2014 by Austrian Airlines and Austria’s main train provider, which already connects several cities to Vienna Airport. This fix makes travel arrangements even simpler and facilitates better collaboration.
Passengers may benefit from reduced transfer journeys and fewer commute-based complications. With aligned schedules, the transition switching from rail to plane becomes more efficient. Travelers who participate in traveler loyalty schemes can continue earning reward credits even for the track-based segment of their journey. These changes are designed to make mobility across Austria and beyond more practical, especially for those relying on multiple modes of transportation.
This cooperation also fits into larger European aspirations for a greener transport. By combining trains with international flights, the project aims to reduce car use and help lower emissions. Better track-based access to and from airports may also decrease pressure on short-haul flight routes and help passengers arrive at their final destinations as part of a more climate-conscious way.
This cooperation between the Star Alliance and ÖBB highlights a shift toward greater coordination between infrastructure systems. It reflects efforts to respond to evolving passenger expectations who seek efficiency and environmental responsibility. With more seamless options now available, mobility convenience becomes easier and better connected for each local and international passengers.