The European Commission has unveiled plans to create a single-ticket system for international rail journeys across Europe, aiming to simplify cross-border train travel and strengthen passenger rights. The proposal, announced on May 13, would require rail operators and ticket platforms to share timetable and booking data so travellers can purchase combined tickets covering multiple operators in a single transaction.
The initiative forms part of the EU’s broader effort to encourage more passengers to choose rail instead of short-haul flights while reducing the complexity of international train bookings. The proposed reforms would also introduce stronger protections for passengers affected by delays or missed connections involving multiple rail companies.
EU targets fragmented rail booking systems
The European Commission said the reforms are designed to address long-standing problems facing passengers who book rail journeys across borders. Many travellers currently need to use several websites, apps or separate tickets to complete a single international trip.
Under the proposal, rail operators would be required to make ticketing and timetable data accessible to third-party booking platforms and rival operators. The Commission said this would support a “one journey, one ticket” model for cross-border rail travel across the European Union.
The reforms would apply to journeys involving multiple rail operators and could also extend to other forms of transport, including ferries and long-distance coaches.
The Commission said easier booking systems could help increase rail use across Europe as the bloc works to reduce emissions from transport. Research cited by the EU showed that booking international rail tickets can take significantly longer than booking flights.
A recent survey referenced by the Commission found that many passengers faced difficulties when organising international rail trips, while a large share of respondents said they would travel more often by train if booking systems were easier to use.
The proposal also aims to create clearer rules for passengers who experience disruption during multi-operator journeys. Under current systems, travellers who buy separate tickets from different rail companies may face difficulties obtaining compensation or replacement transport if delays cause missed connections.
New passenger rights proposed
The proposed rules would require operators to provide passengers with assistance and alternative travel options when delays affect combined journeys booked under a single contract. Travellers could also gain expanded rights to compensation, accommodation and reimbursement.
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said, “Free visas, do not mean unconditional entry,” as European officials highlighted wider concerns about balancing transport accessibility with operational responsibility.
Rail industry groups expressed concern about parts of the proposal, particularly requirements to share ticketing systems and distribution channels with competitors and third-party platforms. Some operators warned the measures could increase costs and reduce control over ticket sales.
Industry representatives also argued that infrastructure investment and rail capacity improvements should remain a priority as international rail demand grows across Europe.
The proposal still requires approval from the European Parliament and EU member states before becoming law. The European Commission said it hopes the reforms can be implemented before the end of the current Commission mandate in 2029, with some passenger rights measures potentially introduced earlier.
The plans represent one of the EU’s most significant attempts to integrate Europe’s fragmented rail booking systems and make cross-border train travel more competitive with air transport.
