EU-wide Integrated Ticketing

Joint Opinion on EU-wide Integrated Ticketing

EMTA, POLIS Network, and UITP have shared their views on integrating ticketing systems across Europe. Their goal is to support sustainable and digital mobility without disrupting the current public transport system. They offer key recommendations to guide new regulations. They aim to create a balanced and sustainable mobility system. By focusing on local authority, governance, fare structure, data sharing, fair investment, collaboration, and consumer protection, they ensure public transport remains key to Europe’s mobility future while embracing digital integration.  

Key recommendations

• Local Authority and Flexibility: Local and regional authorities are crucial for achieving Europe’s green and digital goals. These authorities know their areas best and should have the power to manage and integrate transport services. 
• Strong Governance: Public authorities need to oversee and control the mobility market to ensure it works well for everyone. This control helps align business practices with public goals, especially in a market like public transport, which often operates on low margins. 
• Fare Structure and Digital Support: Public transport fares should help achieve sustainability and fairness. The EU should help local authorities set rules for reselling tickets and services. This ensures public funds benefit everyone, not just private companies. 
• Equal Treatment for All Operators: Regulations should apply to all transport operators, including private companies and digital platforms. This ensures a fair and balanced market, allowing all types of integrated mobility services to develop. 
• Data Sharing: Travel data is crucial for planning and improving services. Authorities should have access to data from ticket sales and travel patterns, ensuring fair play between public and private sectors. 
• Proportional Investment: Transport authorities should not be forced to make big investments quickly, especially after COVID-19. Financial help should be available to cover necessary updates, and costs should be shared fairly. 
• Collaboration in Transport: Public transport authorities should continue to award exclusive rights and financial support to operators fulfilling public service roles. New ticketing rules should respect these agreements. 
•  Consumer Protection: A dispute resolution body should oversee the mobility services market to address customer issues and ensure fair practices.