Europe proposes simpler rules for domestic and international train tickets
A regulation is proposed to allow train travellers to buy a single ticket on a platform or from an operator of their choice. Also provided for more rights when missing a connection
from our correspondent Beda Romano
BRUSSELS - The European Commission presented today, Wednesday 13 May, a proposal for a regulation that would allow people travelling by train across the European Union to buy a single ticket on a platform or from an operator of their choice. The attempt is to encourage rail transport, make the purchase of tickets easier and more transparent. The purchase of a single ticket will also make it possible to benefit from new rights in the event of delays or cancellations.
The railway routes between member countries are multiplying these days. Well-known are those connecting Brussels, Paris, London and Amsterdam several times a day. New direct routes connect Paris with Turin and Milan (see Il Sole/24 Ore of 3 February 2024 and 5 January 2025). Links also exist between France and Spain. In many cases, however, one must change trains and often also railway companies. The single ticket will allow the passenger to have only one ticket, as well as other conveniences.
The European Commission explains: "Online ticketing services of incumbent rail operators with a market share of 50% or more of the rail passenger market will be required to display all rail services available in their country and include them in their search results". In Italia, the focus is on the relationship between Trenitalia and Italo. In Europe, the novelty could benefit Trenitalia, which already offers a service between Paris and Lyon.
More rights when missing a connection
Brussels also proposes that "travellers holding a single ticket (...) enjoy full protection of passenger rights in the event of loss of a connection, even when such connecting services are operated by different railway companies". In other words, 'passengers will not only have the new right to be re-routed to their final destination without having to pay for a new ticket, but they will also be able to obtain comprehensive compensation for the delay they have suffered'.
The proposal covers all routes: regional, national and international. The text will now have to be approved by the Council and Parliament. In 2024, according to Eurostat, 8.3 billion rail passengers made domestic journeys in the Union, totalling 420 billion kilometres. In addition, 150 million passengers travelled 23 billion kilometres in international journeys. The country with the most international rail travel is Luxembourg, followed by the Czech Republic and France.
