Transports: computerised reservation systems CRSs, code of conduct (amend. Regulation (EEC) No 2299/89). Report included

OBJECTIVE: to update the rules on computerized reservation systems (CRSs). SUBSTANCE: the European Commission proposes to update and widen the scope of the existing Code of Conduct which ensures transparency and non-discriminatory application of computerized reservation systems for air carriers and the CRS industry. The main amendment proposed concerns the inclusion of rail services to be supplied by CRSs to travellers and travel agencies, particularly as regards timetables and the possibilities of train connections from airports throughout the Union. The Commission also proposes that travel agencies should come within the scope of the Code of Conduct, in the same way as the air carriers and those who run the various existing CRSs in Europe, in order to ensure that the rule of neutrality and the rule of objectivity in granting information on available flights are respected in the direct relations between travel agencies and their customers. Finally, the Commission proposes to make binding a series of recommendations, laid down in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Code of Ethics, aimed at reducing the cost of running CRSs. �