A new business model developed by Amadeus, the travel technology giant, is providing travel agencies with a way to sell multiple global rail networks.

Amadeus will act as a sales agent for rail operators, simplifying contractual agreements, finances and invoicing with travel agencies. This includes all billing and settlement activities, enabling agents to include rail in their client’s booking, along with air, hotel and other elements.

“Rail travel today is still largely domestic but this will soon change – our merchant model marks the beginning of a new era, giving the industry what it needs to take a global leap, and unlock growth. For travel agencies this will mean a convenient gateway to leading rail content that will serve to enrich their overall offer,” said Antoine de Kerviler, Amadeus’ global head of rail & ground travel.

“I am confident that rail will be on the radar of many more travellers now and as it becomes more and more accessible to them – just imagine booking rail the same way as air, all integrated in a single itinerary – it will get the attention it deserves.”

Initially, Amadeus will be able to offer rail tickets from Germany’s Deutsche Bahn, Spain’s RENFE, France’s SNCF and Italy’s Trenitalia, along with some Eastern European rail operators.

“We look forward to adding more rail operators across all continents in the coming months,” de Kerviler added.