About AccesRail
AccesRail is the world's leading provider of air-rail intermodal travel solutions, operating under IATA carrier code 9B with airline accounting code 450. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, AccesRail was incorporated in October 1998 and has since transformed the way travellers combine air and rail journeys into a single, seamless booking experience. Unlike a traditional airline that operates its own aircraft, AccesRail functions as an IATA Travel Partner that integrates passenger railway and coach services into the Global Distribution Systems (GDS) used by over 120,000 IATA-accredited travel agents worldwide.
Through its unique platform, AccesRail enables travellers to book combined air-and-rail itineraries on a single ticket, making it possible to fly into a major international hub and continue the journey by high-speed train or coach to a final destination. This intermodal approach eliminates the hassle of booking separate tickets, managing multiple reservations, and worrying about connections between airports and railway stations. For Malaysian travellers using Traveloka, AccesRail opens up hundreds of European and international destinations that might otherwise require complicated transfers.
AccesRail partners with more than 100 airlines globally, including major carriers such as Malaysia Airlines, Air India, Etihad Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Lufthansa Group. On the rail side, it works with leading railway operators across Europe, North America, and Asia, ensuring comprehensive coverage for intermodal journeys.
Airline Overview and History
AccesRail has been at the forefront of the air-rail intermodal industry for over two decades. Below is a timeline of key milestones and achievements:
- October 1998 – AccesRail was incorporated in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, with the mission of bridging the gap between air and rail travel through GDS technology.
- Late 1990s to early 2000s – The company secured its IATA carrier code 9B and accounting code 450, enabling it to appear on primary screen displays of all major GDS platforms including Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, and Worldspan.
- 2000s – AccesRail expanded its network of partner railways across Europe, integrating services from SNCF (France), Renfe (Spain), Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), and Eurostar.
- 2010s – The company deepened partnerships with airlines worldwide, allowing combined air-rail tickets to be issued through a single PNR (Passenger Name Record).
- 2023 – Malaysia Airlines unveiled MHrail in partnership with AccesRail, enabling Malaysian travellers to book Korail KTX train tickets in South Korea and rail connections across the United Kingdom directly through Malaysia Airlines' booking platform.
- 2024 – Brightline, the privately operated high-speed rail service in Florida, USA, became available on GDS networks through an AccesRail partnership, expanding intermodal options in North America.
- 2024-2025 – Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, and Etihad Airways all expanded or launched new intermodal partnerships with AccesRail, connecting their passengers to over 100 European cities via rail.
AccesRail's headquarters remain in Montreal, and the company employs approximately 87 staff members dedicated to maintaining and expanding its intermodal travel network. As an IATA Strategic Partner, AccesRail continues to shape the future of combined air-rail travel globally.
Fleet and Aircraft
AccesRail does not operate its own fleet of aircraft or trains. Instead, it serves as an intermodal travel technology and distribution platform that connects airline passengers with railway services through GDS integration. The trains and coaches that travellers experience when booking a 9B segment are operated by AccesRail's partner railways:
- SNCF (France) – TGV high-speed trains connecting Paris to major French cities and cross-border destinations, with speeds up to 320 km/h.
- Renfe (Spain) – AVE high-speed trains serving Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and other Spanish cities at speeds up to 310 km/h.
- Deutsche Bahn (Germany) – ICE (Intercity-Express) trains connecting Frankfurt Airport and other German hubs to cities across Germany and neighbouring countries.
- Trenitalia (Italy) – Frecciarossa high-speed trains serving 28 cities across Italy, including Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Venice, and Bologna.
- Eurostar – Cross-Channel high-speed trains connecting London with Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam via the Channel Tunnel.
- Korail (South Korea) – KTX high-speed trains connecting Seoul, Busan, and other major South Korean cities at speeds up to 305 km/h.
- Avanti West Coast (UK) – Intercity trains connecting London Euston with Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
- London North Eastern Railway (UK) – Services along the East Coast Main Line from London King's Cross to York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh.
- Great Western Railway (UK) – 16 destinations westbound from London Heathrow, including Bristol, Cardiff, Bath, and Exeter.
- National Express (UK) – Coach services connecting major UK cities and airports.
- OBB Austrian Railways – Rail services across Austria, connecting Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and international destinations.
- SNCB Belgian Railways – Services across Belgium, connecting Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.
- Brightline (USA) – High-speed rail service in Florida connecting Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, with expansion to Orlando.
- VIA Rail (Canada) – Intercity passenger rail service connecting major Canadian cities including Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City.
All partner railway operators maintain their own safety standards, maintenance protocols, and regulatory compliance. AccesRail ensures that these services are bookable through standard airline distribution channels, providing travellers with a unified booking and ticketing experience.
Top Flight Routes
AccesRail's intermodal network connects airline passengers to hundreds of destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia. For Malaysian travellers departing from Kuala Lumpur (KUL), the most popular intermodal routes typically involve flying to a major international gateway and continuing by train to a final destination. Here are some of the most popular intermodal connections:
- London Heathrow to UK Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to London and connect via Great Western Railway to Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, or Exeter, or take Avanti West Coast to Birmingham, Manchester, or Edinburgh.
- Frankfurt to German Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Frankfurt and connect via Deutsche Bahn ICE trains to Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart, Hamburg, or Berlin.
- Paris to French Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Paris and take SNCF TGV trains to Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, or Nice.
- Milan to Italian Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Milan and connect via Trenitalia Frecciarossa to Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, or Bologna.
- Seoul to South Korean Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Seoul and take Korail KTX to Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, or Gwangju. This route is especially popular with Malaysian travellers thanks to the Malaysia Airlines MHrail partnership.
- Amsterdam to Benelux Cities – Fly to Amsterdam and connect via rail to Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, or The Hague.
- Vienna to Central European Cities – Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Vienna and take OBB trains to Salzburg, Innsbruck, Budapest, or Prague.
These intermodal routes are particularly valuable for Malaysian travellers exploring Europe and East Asia, as they provide access to secondary cities and regional destinations that may not have direct flight connections from Kuala Lumpur.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Baggage policies for AccesRail (9B) intermodal journeys depend on the combination of the airline and rail operator involved in your itinerary. Here is a general guide to help you plan:
- Air Sector Baggage – The baggage allowance for the flight portion of your journey follows the policy of the airline you are flying with. For example, if you book a Malaysia Airlines flight combined with a 9B rail segment, your checked and cabin baggage allowances on the flight follow Malaysia Airlines' standard rules.
- Rail Sector Baggage – On the train segment, luggage policies are governed by the specific rail operator. Most European rail operators do not impose strict weight limits but have size restrictions. The general AccesRail guideline is that luggage must not exceed 130 cm x 90 cm in total dimensions.
- No Weight Limit on Trains – While there is typically no weight limit to board the train, you must be able to carry and handle your own luggage, as porters and baggage handling services are generally not available at railway stations.
- Self-Service – Unlike airports, most railway stations do not have check-in counters for luggage. You carry your bags onto the train and store them in overhead racks or designated luggage areas.
- Prohibited Items – Standard prohibited items apply across all rail operators, including flammable materials, explosives, and hazardous chemicals. Individual rail operators may have additional restrictions.
It is important to check the specific baggage rules of both your airline and the rail operator for your journey. When booking through Traveloka, the fare rules displayed will indicate the airline's baggage allowance for the air sector. For the rail sector, refer to the specific rail operator's policies or contact AccesRail's customer service at info@accesrail.com for clarification.
Check-in Guide
The check-in process for AccesRail intermodal journeys involves two separate steps, one for your flight and one for your rail segment:
- Air Sector Check-in – Check in for your flight through the airline's standard channels, whether online, via mobile app, or at the airport counter. Follow the airline's check-in timeline, which is typically 48 hours before departure for online check-in.
- Rail Sector Check-in – For the train portion of your journey, check in online at check-in.accesrail.com within 72 hours before your train departure. You will need your ticket number or booking reference (PNR) and last name to access your reservation.
- Print Your Rail Ticket – After completing online check-in for certain rail operators such as Renfe (Spain), you must print your rail boarding pass at the time of check-in. Passengers without a printed ticket may not be able to board the train, as printing at the station is not always available.
- E-Tickets – For many rail operators including Trenitalia and Deutsche Bahn, e-tickets displayed on your mobile device are accepted. Check the specific requirements for your rail operator.
- Arrive Early – For rail departures, arrive at the train station at least 15 to 30 minutes before departure to allow time for finding your platform and boarding. For high-speed services like Eurostar that require security checks, arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes early.
If you need assistance with your rail check-in, contact AccesRail's client service department at checkin.help@accesrail.com.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Since AccesRail connects travellers with various railway operators, the cabin class and onboard experience vary depending on the train service you are using. Most partner railways offer at least two classes of service:
- Standard or Second Class – Comfortable seating with ample legroom compared to economy-class flights. Most European high-speed trains offer power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and fold-down tables at every seat. Seating is typically in an open-plan coach with both forward and rear-facing seats.
- First Class or Business Class – Premium seating with wider seats, quieter carriages, complimentary refreshments on some services, and priority boarding. First-class passengers on trains like the TGV, ICE, and Frecciarossa enjoy enhanced comfort, larger luggage storage, and dedicated staff.
- Premier or Prestige Class – Select rail operators such as Eurostar and VIA Rail Canada offer premium tiers that include lounge access, multi-course meals, and fully reclining seats or private cabins.
Onboard amenities across most AccesRail partner railways include:
- Dining and Refreshments – Many high-speed trains feature onboard bistro cars or trolley service offering snacks, hot and cold beverages, and full meals. Halal dining options may be limited on European trains, so Muslim travellers from Malaysia are advised to bring their own halal meals or snacks.
- Wi-Fi and Entertainment – Free Wi-Fi is available on most European high-speed trains, though speeds may vary. Some services offer onboard entertainment portals accessible through your personal device.
- Scenic Views – One of the greatest advantages of rail travel is the scenic experience, with panoramic views of European countryside, mountains, coastlines, and cities that you simply cannot enjoy from an aeroplane.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
AccesRail's partner railways generally offer a range of special services for passengers with specific needs. Policies may vary by rail operator, so it is advisable to confirm details when booking:
- Children and Infants – Most European rail operators allow children under 4 years to travel free without a reserved seat. Children aged 4 to 11 often receive discounted fares of up to 50% off adult prices. Age requirements and discounts vary by rail operator.
- Pregnant Passengers – There are generally no travel restrictions for pregnant passengers on trains. Unlike airlines that may impose cutoff weeks, rail operators typically allow travel at any stage of pregnancy. However, long journeys may be uncomfortable in the later stages, and travellers are advised to consult their doctor before undertaking lengthy rail trips.
- Passengers with Reduced Mobility – Major European rail operators provide wheelchair-accessible carriages, ramp access, and assistance at stations. Travellers requiring assistance should notify the rail operator at least 48 hours in advance. Services include wheelchair ramps, accessible seating, and accessible toilets on most high-speed trains.
- Unaccompanied Minors – Policies vary by rail operator. Some services such as Eurostar accept unaccompanied minors aged 12 and above, while others may not offer this service. Check with the specific rail operator before booking.
- Pets – Pet policies differ significantly between rail operators. Many European trains allow small pets in carriers, while larger dogs may require a muzzle and leash. Some operators charge a pet fare.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
The reschedule and cancellation policies for AccesRail (9B) bookings depend on the fare type and the specific rail operator. Here is a general overview:
- Interline Products – For combined air-rail bookings where the 9B segment is part of a larger itinerary with an airline, refund and change policies follow the fare rules of the overall ticket. Contact the issuing airline or your travel agent for specific conditions.
- Standalone 9B Tickets – Tickets issued directly on the 9B/450 ticket stock follow BSP (Billing and Settlement Plan) or ARC rules for refunds.
- Cancellation Before Departure – Cancellation of a 9B segment in the GDS before departure does not automatically guarantee a refund. The 9B coupon status must be changed to Refunded before departure and within the timeframe allowed by the tariff rules.
- Auto-Cancellation – Non-ticketed bookings that are older than 48 hours with a travel date within the next 24 hours will be automatically cancelled by the system.
- Changes and Rescheduling – The ability to change travel dates or times depends on the fare class and rail operator. Flexible fares on most European rail operators allow changes with no penalty, while restricted fares may incur change fees or be non-changeable.
For reschedule or cancellation requests related to AccesRail bookings made through Traveloka, you can manage your booking through Traveloka's My Booking feature or contact Traveloka's 24/7 customer support for assistance. You may also reach AccesRail directly at info@accesrail.com or by phone at +1 (514) 904-2611.
Why Book AccesRail Flights on Traveloka
Booking AccesRail intermodal journeys through Traveloka offers Malaysian travellers several distinct advantages:
- Single Booking Platform – Search, compare, and book your combined air-rail itinerary on Traveloka without switching between airline and railway websites.
- Malaysian Payment Methods – Pay with Malaysian-friendly options including credit and debit cards, online banking, and popular e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay, all priced in RM.
- Transparent Pricing – See the full cost of your intermodal journey upfront with no hidden fees, including both flight and rail segments in a single price display.
- E-Ticket Convenience – Receive instant e-ticket confirmation for your booking and manage your itinerary through the Traveloka app.
- 24/7 Customer Support – Access Traveloka's round-the-clock customer service in English and Bahasa Malaysia for any booking queries or travel disruptions.
- Exclusive Promos and Deals – Take advantage of Traveloka promotions, coupon codes, and seasonal sales that may include discounts on AccesRail intermodal bookings.
- Traveloka Points – Earn loyalty points on your booking that can be redeemed for discounts on future travel, accommodation, and experiences.
- Trusted Platform – Traveloka is Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, used by millions of travellers across the region for secure and reliable bookings.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Securing affordable AccesRail intermodal fares requires a combination of smart booking habits and taking advantage of Traveloka's features. Here are practical tips to help you save:
- Book Early – Rail fares in Europe are typically cheapest when booked 60 to 90 days in advance. High-speed train tickets from operators like SNCF and Renfe can be significantly cheaper with early booking.
- Travel During Off-Peak Hours – Midday and late-evening trains are often cheaper than peak morning and evening services. Similarly, midweek flights on Tuesday and Wednesday tend to have lower fares than weekend departures.
- Use Traveloka Price Alert – Set up price alerts on Traveloka for your desired route and dates to receive notifications when fares drop.
- Check Traveloka Promos – Regularly visit the Traveloka promotions page and apply available coupon codes during checkout to unlock additional savings.
- Be Flexible with Dates – If your travel dates are flexible, use Traveloka's fare calendar feature to compare prices across different dates and find the cheapest options.
- Consider Alternative Gateways – Instead of flying directly to a smaller European city, fly to a major hub with cheaper airfares and use AccesRail to reach your final destination by train. For example, flying to London and taking the train to Bath can be much cheaper than flying to Bristol.
- Bundle Your Trip – Book your flights, rail connections, hotel, and airport transfers together on Traveloka to unlock bundle discounts and simplify your travel planning.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season – European travel in April to May or September to October typically offers lower fares and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months of June to August.
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Booking AccesRail intermodal tickets on Traveloka is straightforward. Follow these steps to secure your air-rail journey:
- Visit Traveloka – Open the Traveloka app or website at traveloka.com/en-my and select the Flights section.
- Search for Flights – Enter your departure city such as Kuala Lumpur, destination city, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class. If your final destination is served by an AccesRail intermodal route, combined itineraries may appear in the search results.
- Compare Results – Review the search results, comparing prices, journey times, and connection options. Look for itineraries that include a 9B rail segment for intermodal connections.
- Select Your Itinerary – Choose the itinerary that best suits your schedule and budget, then review the fare details including baggage allowance, fare conditions, and any add-ons.
- Fill in Passenger Details – Enter the required passenger information including full name as per passport, contact details, and any special service requests.
- Choose Payment Method – Select your preferred payment method from available options including credit cards, debit cards, online banking, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay.
- Complete Payment – Confirm your booking and complete the payment. You will receive an instant e-ticket confirmation via email and in the Traveloka app.
- Check In – Remember to check in separately for both your flight through the airline and your rail segment through check-in.accesrail.com within 72 hours of train departure.
For any questions about your AccesRail booking, visit Traveloka's Help Centre or contact customer support for real-time assistance. You can also check your flight status on Traveloka to stay updated on your travel itinerary.