Transfer network of high-speed rail and aviation: Structure and critical components

Abstract

In this paper, we utilize network theory to model and study the coupled high-speed rail–aviation network (HSR–AN) in China. The HSR–AN depicting the transport services is modelled as a transfer network in P-space (TNP) in this research. The basic topology properties of the TNP and the corresponding critical components (e.g., nodes and areas) are analysed. As one type of spatial networks coupled two transportation networks, TNP of HSR–AN, counterintuitively, exhibits small-world properties which can be attributed by offering service connecting long-distance cities without transfer and complementary relationship between two transport modes. Additionally, an analysis of vital node (area) in vulnerability environment indicates that the importance of network components critically depends on the economic development level, population density, and geographical features in the corresponding city. Besides, the failure of high-speed rail station generates worse effect than that on airport in HSR–ANs. The findings are beneficial for enhancing the efficiency of HSR–ANs and developing emergency response plans for transport managers.