Amadeus signs global technology deal to enable rail e-ticketing
AccesRail' customers will have access to the advanced Amadeus Electronic Ticketing Server
Madrid, Spain, 15 November 2006: Amadeus, a global leader in technology and distribution solutions for the travel and tourism industry, today announced it has signed a major global technology deal with AccesRail. AccesRail supports rail providers who wish to sell their products and services in the GDS principal displays, by taking responsibility for all associated administrative tasks to achieve that. In a phased approach throughout 2007, AccesRail's customers will have access to the advanced Amadeus Electronic Ticketing Server, a solution to fulfil electronic document storage and data management needs. In addition, they will benefit from Amadeus' multi-GDS e-ticketing solution.
The Amadeus Electronic Ticketing server will facilitate the storage of e-tickets regardless of their origin, as well as validate and carry out security checks on the issuance of e-tickets. The server also acts as a gateway 'hub', directing the e-tickets issued from any GDS to the desired external e-ticketing server (an operator's server, the Amadeus server or an interlining partner's server).
According to an IATA recommendation, all airlines should be e-ticket compliant by the end of 2007. With access to the Amadeus Electronic Ticketing Server rail companies can ensure they remain up-to-date and in line with airlines. "It is important that our customers have access to this advanced technology so that they remain a viable alternative to air travel. Using the Amadeus Electronic Ticketing Server is an integral part of our strategy to ensure our customers' success," stated Oddbjorn Taraldsvik, Sales Director World Sales, AccesRail.
Rail providers can expect cost savings similar to that of airlines who use e-ticketing. IATA estimates that US$ 9 are saved every time an e-ticket is issued in place of a paper ticket.
"We are delighted that AccesRail has chosen Amadeus to provide this solution. This deal demonstrates our dedication and flexibility to provide sophisticated IT solutions to the rail market. With over 26 billion global rail passengers every year and an increase of 10,000 kms of high-speed rails expected to open in Europe by 2020,* we firmly believe that Amadeus is the right technology partner to support this growing market," stated Albert Pozo, Managing Director, Travel & Leisure, Amadeus.
