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Multi-channel rail solution plan by Amadeus
Amadeus is developing a multi-channel rail solution for Europe with its recent deal with Eurostar as just the first step.
The plan is for the technology, which will enable agents and customers to compare Eurostar fares alongside air fares, to be integrated into all four GDS and most travel websites.
Once the Eurostar information comes on stream early next year the GDS will concentrate on replacing the UK’s rail booking system Elgar, which is to be switched off at the end of 2007.
The next step for the distribution giant is to look at integrating further European rail operators, such as Deutsche Bahn, into the system.
The system will enable agents to take advantage of the increase in rail bookings for journeys of less than three hours.
The technology also facilitates inter-lining allowing agents to combine rail and air journeys on one ticket.
The introduction of the Eurostar fares will include seat maps, e-ticketing and the ability to transfer passenger booking information into back-office accounting systems automatically.
According to Amadeus UK & Ireland managing director Stephane Durand the Eurostar deal proves the GDS is now more than just a global distribution system.
The company is investing 1 billion euros in technology over the next five years broken down into 59% on distribution, 14% on e-commerce and 27% on IT services.
Report by Linda Fox
Phil Davies
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