The European Commission has proposed new rules aimed at simplifying cross-border rail bookings by allowing passengers to book multi-operator journeys on a single ticket.
The Commission said fragmented systems had made it increasingly complex to book multi-leg journeys involving different operators and combinations of transport services.
It has proposed measures for passengers to book single tickets across multiple rail operators. Passengers will be able to find, compare and purchase services from different operators combined into a single ticket, which can be bought in one transaction on a platform of their choice.
The proposal also introduces a full passenger rights protection, including assistance, rerouting, reimbursement and compensation when a passenger misses a connection on a multi-operator rail journey purchased as a single ticket.
To achieve this, the European Commission has proposed that all online ticketing platforms be required to display offers in a neutral and transparent manner. Platforms holding a strategic market position will also have to ensure fair treatment of transport operators.
