Commission proposes single rail tickets and stronger passenger protection

Passengers would be able to book journeys on several rail companies as one ticket in a single transaction and get full rights to assistance, re-routing, refund and compensation if they miss a connection; ticketing platforms must display offers neutrally.

On 13 May 2026 the European Commission presented three proposed regulations to make planning and booking easier for rail journeys involving several operators: passengers would be able to buy connections of different rail companies as one ticket in one purchase on a platform of their choice, and would be entitled to assistance, re-routing, refund and compensation if they miss a connection. Ticketing platforms and operators must ensure fair access to ticket sales and show offers neutrally, where possible sorted by greenhouse gas emissions; all transport companies are to be able to conclude fair, non-discriminatory commercial agreements with platforms. The proposals now go to the Council and Parliament; the background is fragmented booking systems and the strong market position of some rail companies. (LOK Report, 13 May 2026)