Electronic Markets in Transport: Comparing the Globalization of Air and Rail Computerized Reservation Systems

Abstract

The troubled introduction of an American air computerized reservation system at French Railways reflects the difficulty of transforming European public rail transport into a market-oriented industry. Computerized reservation systems played an important role in supporting increased competition, providing a global strategic advantage and modifying market structures in the US air industry. However, differences between US air and European rail market structures explain some of the difficulties in emulating this transformation, and put in question the effects global distribution networks and yield management may have on the European transport and tourism industry.