The European Commission has introduced a new rail reform package to simplify cross-border train travel across the EU. Known as the «one journey, one ticket» initiative, the proposal would allow passengers to book multi-leg rail journeys involving different operators through a single ticketing system, Euronews reported.
The legislation responds to longstanding complaints about Europe’s fragmented rail booking system, as many passengers struggle to combine train journeys across multiple operators.
Under the proposed rules, rail operators would be required to share ticketing data with third-party platforms, enabling passengers to compare and purchase journeys in one place. The package would also strengthen passenger protections in cases of delays or cancellations, including rerouting, accommodation when necessary and compensation for significant delays.
Supporters of the legislation argue that it could make rail travel more accessible, transparent and competitive. They also believe the reforms could help smaller rail companies and independent ticketing platforms compete with dominant national operators while encouraging greener forms of travel.
However, the legislation has drawn criticism from parts of the rail industry. The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) warned that mandatory ticket-sharing rules could undermine commercial freedom and discourage investment in operators’ own digital systems. CER Executive Director Alberto Mazzola argued that the reforms risk shifting market power toward large digital platforms that could eventually impose higher commissions on operators.
Industry representatives also said ticketing reform alone would not solve deeper infrastructure problems affecting European rail. They pointed to congestion, inconsistent signaling systems and insufficient high-speed rail connections as more urgent priorities for improving international train travel.
The draft regulations are still under consideration, as they must be reviewed and approved by the European Parliament and all EU member states before being implemented.
