evaluate the factors enhancing connectivity and intermodality in the EU

Preparation for Specialist Research Project

Introduction
Background
The objective of transport systems (TSs) is to offer people the opportunity to connect as well as prospect for leisure and work. TSs entail various modes across space, which influence a wide range of geographic areas, states, and users at both local and national levels (Chiambaretto and Decker, 2012). However, inadequate coordination among various actors involved may cause inefficient utilisation of resources. As a result, establishing stakeholder and institutional co-ordination across function, space, and funding is crucial to the development of an incorporated and comprehensive TS.
Currently, self-connectivity has augmented to create alternative avenues for passengers who desire to fly to Europe via the air transportation network (ATN) (Cattaneo et al., 2017). Airports and airlines, especially low-cost carriers (LCCs) have begun tackling the need for such passengers using hybridisation process (Klophaus et al., 2012; Morandi et al., 2015). To alter and improve connectivity in the ATN, intermodal arrangements between operators and airlines are progressively becoming a common feature in TS (Chiambaretto and Decker, 2012; Airports Council International (ACI), 2020). The primary transport hubs offering intermodal connections to tourists and locals may include airports, international train stations, and cruise terminals (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 2016).
Rationale
Intermodality is becoming high in the agenda of politicians and the government in Europe and increasing in other segments of the world. Various scholars perceive this development as a solution to most of the problems encountered in the transport sector in contemporary societies (such as emissions of carbon dioxide and rising levels of accidents) (Caris et al., 2008; Santos, 2017). Additionally, it will play a substantial role in permitting better mobility for travellers across the world. Various research shows the demand for intermodal travels to be growing with the beginning of high-speed rail services (Cattaneo et al., 2017). Another factor causing this development is the continued evolution in demand for air transport, which has forced airlines to reconsider how they can capitalise on the efficiency of their networks (PwC UK 2017).
Significance
Given the complexity associated with understanding intermodality within ATN and connectivity, no single investigation can entirely bring a clear understanding of the phenomenon and its influence on the economy and transportation. Therefore, the proposed research will contribute greatly to the understanding of how air connectivity has evolved through intermodality to improve the movement of people within European countries. Moreover, the outcome will provide crucial information to guide policy-makers and transport stakeholders such as ministers, trade organisations, and passenger groups to perceive the value of intermodal agreements between various transport hubs on connectivity.

Aim and objectives
Aim: To explore how EU single market has improved transport connectivity and intermodality
Objectives
To evaluate the factors enhancing connectivity and intermodality in the EU
To assess how government policies and strategic plans have brought tremendous changes in the TS, especially ATN
To determine the influence of connectivity and intermodality on the expansion of TS and ATN.
Research questions (RQ)
What are the impacts of air connectivity and intermodality on the ATN?
To what extent, does interconnectedness of mode of transports affect ATN?
What factors inhibit air connectivity and intermodal transport in the EU?
Scope and limits of the RQs
The specific intent of the RQs is to point out the factors and influences that have encouraged air connectivity and intermodality in the EU and how it has impacted the ATN in this region. The RQs will primarily support the identification of sectoral dynamics influencing the present level of connection of various transport modes in various regions of Europe. Additionally, they will direct the researcher to identify how policy-makers can develop, implement, and support the ATN/TS to be effective in ensuring the seamless movement of people. However, the RQs are limited to the understanding of the development of connectivity development in regards to ATN.