Continuing to work with Europe`s leading rail operators in reviewing the most effective distribution channels for their products and services, Galileo International recently signed an agreement with the national rail company of Belgium, Societe Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belges (SNCB
).
This agreement allows for the distribution of SNCB`s services through the Galileo
computer reservation system, by Galileo connecting to SNCB`s new Atlantis interface.

Galileo   customers in the Belgian market will now be able to access SNCB`s products and services including Eurostar and Thalys trains, timetable enquiries, bookings and ticket printing for journeys throughout Belgium and neighbouring countries. Ticket printing is via the innovative Galileo Print Delivery System (GPDS). This technology enables travel agencies to print rail and air tickets from the same ATB printer, with each document queued to be printed in sequence. Previously, separate printers were required for each type of ticket. In addition, a new easy-to-use interface, Galileo`s Print Manager, enables travel agents to view and monitor all ticket queues and print devices.

?gIn order to compete effectively in today`s highly competitive European rail travel market, SNCB must consider the best distribution channels available for its products and services. By signing this agreement with Galileo, SNCB has found a partner to help in the successful pursuit of this strategy,” said Paul Geyssens, manager, External Distribution for SNCB. “By connecting to the @lantis interface Galileo travel agents throughout Belgium now have highly automated access to SNCB information. The @lantis interface was created by SNCB as a user-friendly presentation/navigation tool for travel agencies to improve railway bookings and sales.?h

?gIn pursuit of its strategy of ambitious growth in the distribution of European rail services, this agreement with SNCB is another notable success for Galileo following on from recent contracts with SNCF of France, DB of Germany and RENFE of Spain,?h said Gordon Wilson
, executive vice president and managing director for Galileo`s Europe, Middle East and Africa region. ?gWith rail travel holding a strong competitive position throughout Europe, the availability of a rail company`s products and services through the Galileo system, allows our travel agency customers to provide a more comprehensive and complete service to their clients. Rail travel complements other modes of transport such as air, and high-speed trains are a particularly convenient option in Europe.?h

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