Abstract For choice problems in transportation, machine learning and deep learning are alternative methods to traditional choice models. While several works explored the potential of this technology for modelling mode choice, lower attention is given to route choice, especially in public transport. In this work, we propose a deep learning model designed specifically for route choice in public transport. The model can estimate a nonlinear utility function, allowing complex interactions among the variables; it can easily include non-alternative specific variables, such as weather or socio-demographic information. Moreover, compared to the traditional choice models, it numerically outperforms the Path Size Logit Model in prediction performance, and does not require pre-specification of the model by an experienced human modeler. These properties are particularly useful for route choice analyses, to capture possible heterogeneities or complex behavior, which are difficult to model a priori. We evaluated the interpretability of the model observing the marginal rates of substitution and applying Accumulated Local Effects, showing meaningful effects of the variables on the probability to choose an alternative. We tested the proposed model on a large-scale dataset based on GPS tracking. We considered both synthetic choices, to demonstrate the model properties, and real choices, to evaluate the model in practice. The results showed moderately better performance of the deep learning model compared to the Path Size Logit, confirming the possibility of using it for modeling and predicting route choice.


    Access

    Download


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Modelling route choice in public transport with deep learning


    Additional title:

    Transportation


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2025-03-10




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




    Modelling travel time reliability in public transport route choice behaviour

    Andele B. Swierstra / Rob van Nes / Eric J.E. Molin | DOAJ | 2017

    Free access

    Modelling Public Transport Route Choice, with Multiple Access and Egress Modes

    Brands, Ties / de Romph, Erik / Veitch, Tim et al. | Tema Archive | 2014


    Public transport route choice modelling: Identification of bias when using smart card data

    Ingvardson, Jesper / Thorhauge, Mikkel / Nielsen, Otto Anker et al. | TIBKAT | 2022

    Free access

    Modelling route choice behaviour in multi-modal transport networks

    Bovy, Piet H. L. / Hoogendoorn-Lanser, Sascha | Online Contents | 2005


    Route choice modelling for freight transport at national level

    Russo, F. / Vitetta, A. / Quattrone, A. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2006