Advantages and disadvantages of rail transportation as perceived by passengers

Public transport is an important element of sustainable mobility. Rail travel is a traditional mode of transport in the Czech Republic. Its many benefits include positive environmental and safety aspects and the reduction of traffic jams. The choice of transport mode is a complex process involving both rational and irrational motives. More effective promotion of rail transport requires a better understanding of how it is perceived by potential users. This research identifies the key factors perceived as advantages and disadvantages of rail transportation in the Czech Republic.

Methods

In the first phase, an interview framework was constructed and used for in-depth interviews in 35 households using the interpretative phenomenological approach (IPA). These interviews defined the key preferences and barriers for using the train. Data collection was complemented by a quantitative online survey of 405 respondents who rarely used the train.

Results

In the qualitative part of the research, several topics arose from the interviews. Respondents perceive the following aspects as advantages when travelling by train: comfort, the train as a space for social interaction, the view, transportation without worry, and seat reservations. Disadvantages include: crowding, organization of the rail system, low number of trains, delays, train routes, boarding and exiting the train, and luggage transportation. Finances and safety are seen both as advantages and disadvantages of rail travel.

The results of the quantitative part of the research show respondents appreciate that they do not have to pay attention or control the actual process of travelling (n = 232; 57.3%) as compared to using an automobile. They also perceive the ability to move around in the train (n = 153, 37.8%) and the comfort during the journey (n = 152, 37.5%) as advantages. On the other hand they see as disadvantages delays (n = 192, 47.4%), transfers between modes of travel (n = 177, 43.7%) and poor access to some destinations (n = 161, 39.8%).

Conclusions

Travelling is a daily part of many people's lives, and it is desirable to create conditions that simplify this process and make rail transportation accessible to as many passengers as possible across society, whether for individuals, groups, or persons with reduced mobility. This research identified areas that could influence decision-making for the use of rail transportation.