Effects of Price on Transport Equity: New Evidence from Long-Distance Travel in Vietnam

This paper investigates the impact of price on transport equity in Vietnam. Utilizing data from a comprehensive survey of 2754 passengers who selected passenger cars, intercity buses, railways, or airplanes, the study conducts inequity indicator-based analyses to examine variations in fare (or price for passenger cars) equity across these long-distance travel modes. The findings reveal that intercity buses offer more equitable fares compared to alternative options, highlighting the significant role fare equity plays in mode choice preferences. Specifically, passengers are more likely to choose intercity buses over railways and airplanes because of their more equitable fare structures. In contrast, regional rail services exhibit considerable horizontal inequity, as their fares are generally more expensive than those of intercity buses and even passenger cars. In addition, fare equity varies by region within Vietnam. Notably, both intercity buses and rail services are less attractive in the Northern Midlands and Mountains because of high ticket prices, reflecting regional spatial inequities. This study provides valuable insights into how fare equity influences mode choice for long-distance travel in Vietnam and offers guidance for fare policy and transportation planning by emphasizing the importance of equitable fare structures.