Eurostar, the high speed train operator between the UK, France and Belgium, is soon to be more accessible for the business traveller with the help of Amadeus technology. The two companies are working on the Eurostar GDS Gateway, which will see Eurostar services on the screens of all the major GDSs in the UK. This will enable travel managers to access the Eurostar inventory and book tickets as they would for an airline. As with the airfares, Eurostar tickets will also be available in combinations with hotel bookings, car rental and insurance.
A demonstration version of the system is being showcased at the Business Travel Show 2007, with the final product set for completion by the end of the year. Before launching the product tests will be carried out across all GDSs, with preferred supplier partners Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Expedia Corporate Travel and Hillgate Travel.
Commenting on the new system Amadeus managing director UK & Ireland Stephane Durand said: ”Travel management companies and corporate travellers are always on the lookout for fast, efficient access to the widest range of travel content. Amadeus” latest IT development will see Eurostar high speed rail availability shown on the same display as airlines, allowing for easy comparison between air and rail alternatives. Additional benefits such as e-ticketing and instant booking confirmation, together with access to graphical seat-map displays, will boost productivity and enhance customer service for TMCs and their rail travelling customers.”