European Commission pushes for single ticket for cross-border train travel

The European Commission wants train passengers to be able to travel across Europe with a single ticket, under new plans announced on Wednesday.

At the moment, booking international rail journeys can be complicated, especially when trips involve several train companies and connections. Passengers often have to use different websites, buy separate tickets and deal with limited protection if delays happen.

Under the proposal, travellers would be able to search, compare and book train services from different operators in one transaction on the platform of their choice. This could be an independent booking website or a railway company’s own service.

Rail operators would be required to share ticket and timetable data with online platforms that want to sell their journeys. Large national rail companies would also have to open their booking systems to rival operators, making it easier for new companies to compete.

The plans also include stronger passenger rights. If a delay causes a missed connection on a single-ticket journey, the operator responsible would have to offer an alternative route or a refund. In some cases, passengers could also be entitled to meals or hotel accommodation.

The Commission says the changes would make long-distance train travel more attractive and support greener transport across Europe.

The proposal must still be approved by EU member states and the European Parliament before it can become law.

^{The Eurostar from Brussels to London © BELGA PHOTO JASPER JACOBS}