European train service Eurostar has announced a partnership with global airline alliance SkyTeam, paving the way for integrated intermodal journeys via air and rail for millions of customers.
Eurostar will be SkyTeam’s first non-airline partner, and customers will be able to travel on itineraries that combine long- and medium-haul flights with sustainable rail journeys in a single reservation – while enjoying SkyTeam benefits.
Eurostar’s increased network offers many possibilities to enjoy multi-city journeys between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany that can easily be accommodated by rail.
Customers will be able to fly into SkyTeam’s main hubs in France, the Netherlands and the UK and other major European airports across Eurostar’s network and enjoy multi-city travel in a more sustainable way. Currently, around 13% of Eurostar passengers flying long-haul into one of SkyTeam’s main European hubs connect to another Eurostar destination by rail.
Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO of Eurostar, said: “Offering travellers the choice to see Europe in the most sustainable and convenient way by rail is a key component of Eurostar’s vision for growth.
“We are creating a future where travellers can connect between Eurostar trains, domestic railways and long haul flying, opening up our services to new markets across the globe.
“Today is a major step forward towards this mission and we look forward to working with SkyTeam to develop the customer proposition so more travellers can experience Eurostar’s unique service.”
Patrick Roux, SkyTeam CEO, commented: “Working with Eurostar as our first non-airline partner underscores SkyTeam’s commitment to delivering a more integrated and responsible travel experience by incorporating intermodal travel.
“One of the world’s most-loved train operators, with a reputation for customer service, Eurostar is a natural fit for SkyTeam. I look forward to developing our partnership and offering customers greater choice in how they travel across SkyTeam’s global network.”
The two companies will work together in the coming months to create a more integrated experience for air-to-rail travel, ensuring customers can enjoy the benefits of both transport modes.
The partnership is expected to launch in the first half of 2025. Eurostar and SkyTeam member, KLM, already have a long-standing relationship.
The companies will continue to develop their air-rail product for customers, which has already led to a strategic reduction in flights between Amsterdam and Brussels.
