Spike in rail traffic as passengers seek alternative ways to travel

Amadeus has released the results of a survey it conducted which was aimed at figuring out how the economy and rising fuel prices have affected the travel industry.  In particular the survey was looking to see the impact these factors had on the rail system as passengers are looking for alternative ways to travel.

Business travellers seem to be using rail travel more frequently than leisure passengers.  According to Amadeus’ survey travel agents experienced a 58 per cent increase in rail travel among business travellers versus only a 40 per cent increase in rail travel among leisure travellers.

The director of marketing for Amadeus in the UK and Ireland, Elaine Seeto said in regards to the survey “With both leisure and business travel agents reporting an increase in bookings during the first half of 2008 compared to the same period last year, confidence remains high among agents taking part in our survey.

“It was interesting to note an upsurge in interest for rail travel, which validates Amadeus’ focus on deploying easier ways to book non-air services including rail, car, hotel, cruise holidays and add-ons like transfers and sightseeing tours.

“The recent acquisition of a controlling interest in Onerail, which provides a suite of technology solutions to the rail industry, will no doubt deliver further advances in this area. Regardless of what the economic outlook is likely to be in the short- to mid-term, Amadeus UK remains committed to helping our travel agency partners compete effectively and deliver value to their customers.”

www.amadeus.net