Factors Affecting Travel Mode Choice between High-speed Railway and Air Transportation among University Students for Tourism - Evidence from China

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the students’ preferred travel mode choice (high-speed railway (HSR) or air transportation (AT)) for tourism and the influencing factors which predict their mode choice. A questionnaire survey was conducted among university students (refers to both undergraduate and graduate students) in Beijing, China, measuring the students’ demographic characteristics, travel situations, travel mode choice, and intentions regarding tourism. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the influencing factors responsible for travel mode choice between HSR and AT. The results showed that gender, transportation cost, transportation time, the person accompanying the traveler, and sources of funds are significant factors of choosing HSR. It was found that males are found to be more attracted to HSR as compared to females. Furthermore, choosing HSR as a travel mode is negatively correlated with transportation costs. The study results further revealed that travel partner (who accompany the students in the tour) and sources of funds are the crucial variables in predicting their travel mode choice among university students. It was found that students prefer to travel via HSR with their spouse or lover. Lastly, improvements are suggested for government officials and related stakeholders to maximize the profits of HSR and AT.