France halts domestic flights on shorter routes that can be covered by train to reduce carbon emissions

France's transport system Clement Beaune said this is an essential step as well as a strong symbol in the policy of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, CNN reported.

"As we relentlessly fight to decarbonise our lifestyle, how can we justify plane usage between big cities that benefit from fast, regular and efficient connections via train," he said.

For the ban to be in place, the European Union has insisted the air route must have a high-speed rail alternative that makes travel between the two cities possible in less than two-and-a-half hours. It is also important that there are enough late as well as early-running trains that enable travellers to spend eight hours at least at the destination.