The European Network of Business Travel Associations (BT4Europe) has issued a response to the impact assessment study on the Multimodal Digital Mobility Services (MDMS), the Single Digital Booking and Ticketing Regulation (SDBTR), and the Code of Conduct for Computerised Reservation Systems (CRS), which are being reviewed in preparation for potential new EU regulations.
BT4Europe reaffirms its commitment to supporting the European Commission in developing legislation that facilitates efficient and competitive travel for European businesses.
The Commission aims to simplify rail travel and booking processes across Europe through the SDBTR, and is also assessing MDMS platforms to determine how transport services are displayed and sold digitally. A key question under consideration is whether MDMS platforms should serve purely informational purposes or also enable bookings—an issue with significant implications for business travel. Additionally, the Commission is evaluating whether the existing CRS Code of Conduct remains effective, requires amendments, or should be replaced with new legislation.
BT4Europe’s position is clear:
The current CRS Code of Conduct is outdated and no longer fit for purpose. It must be thoroughly revised to reflect today’s technological landscape and commercial practices. Furthermore, the proposed actions lack sufficient scope and fail to adequately address the needs of the B2B travel sector.
BT4Europe strongly supports the implementation of a comprehensive MDMS framework that includes booking capabilities, regulation encompassing all cross-border transport modes, and transparent filtering mechanisms.
BT4Europe also endorses the European Commission President’s Political Guidelines, which state that «people should be able to use open booking systems to purchase trans-European journeys with several providers.»
Lotten Fowler, Chair of the Economic Impact Working Group, BT4Europe said:
«To drive sustainable, seamless, and competitive business travel in Europe, BT4Europe believes we urgently need digital mobility frameworks that reflect the realities of today’s travel ecosystem.» She concluded: «BT4Europe is clear: outdated regulation risks stifling innovation. It’s time to align EU policy with the digital needs of modern business travellers.«
