Deutsche Bahn joins the Vueling Global virtual network on Dohop platform

Integration of flights with rail at Berlin's Brandenburg Airport extends catchment area to more regions in Germany and also throughout Europe

German rail operator Deutsche Bahn is to integrate its services with IAG-owned Spanish airline Vueling through the carrier’s virtual interlining platform.

Vueling Global is a partnership with technology firm Dohop whose platform integrates transportation suppliers to create virtual networks. 

The tie-up with Deutsche Bahn will enable flight and rail connections to be offered to Vueling customers. 

They will be able to purchase tickets using one booking process to destinations across Germany. 

Connections between the two types of transport can be made at Berlin Brandenburg Airport to cities such as Dresden, Hannover, Leipzig, Rostock and Wolfsburg.

The intermodal travel link extends the catchment area of the airport to surrounding cities and as well as linking it to destinations across Europe.  

The booking of multiple mobility options through one platform is another step toward sustainability of the entire travel chain, said Dohop.

Jesús Monzo, distribution strategy and alliances manager for Vueling, said: "This is Vueling's first intermodal agreement and opens the door to an increasingly strong trend in the industry to connect different types of transport and mobility, thus increasing the offer and options for the passenger. 

“In addition, we must highlight the environmental factor and the relevance that trains are acquiring in this as a means of sustainable mobility".

David Gunnarsson, chief executive of Dohop, added: “Our platform allows Vueling and Deutsche Bahn to provide passengers with an enhanced travel experience and a one-stop-shop for booking their combined journey. 

“Customers will have the opportunity to experience Vueling’s signature flight experience while also adding their onward journey by rail in one booking. Linking flight and train travel seamlessly through intermodal transfer options is a further step towards improved and more sustainable travel.”