Passengers set to benefit from new contactless payments on Metrolink

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham touches in on the new contactless system

Metrolink passengers across Greater Manchester are set to benefit from a new and easy-to-use contactless payment system – transforming the way people pay for public transport. 

Launching on Monday 15 July, it will see Greater Manchester joining a small band of leading global city-regions including New York, Rio and Singapore, which are currently also introducing the technology.

It also marks one of the first tangible steps towards Our Network – the Mayor’s ten-year plan to create an integrated, modern and accessible public transport system.

Metrolink customers can already use their contactless bank card to buy a ticket at a ticket machine, and this will remain an option.

The new ‘intelligent’ contactless system will cut the need to buy a ticket or download the app – with passengers simply required to touch-in and touch-out at tram stops, using a contactless bank card or another contactless-enabled payment device, such as a phone or watch.

The system works out their fare, up to a daily cap, to ensure they are paying no more than the relevant adult daily one-day travelcard price

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, said: “On Monday, we opened applications for 'Our Pass' and today I’m pleased to be able to announce that contactless will launch on Metrolink on 15 July.

“These initiatives are the first of many on our journey towards the integrated, London-style transport system we want to see here.

“Contactless payments on Metrolink in particular will be a major boost for many people, including commuters and the millions of visitors we get every single year.

“It is something people visiting London will already be familiar with and will make travel by tram easier, and improve access to jobs, leisure, skills and education opportunities across Greater Manchester.”

TfGM’s launch of contactless ticketing on Metrolink represents the first aggregated Pay As You Go implementation on light rail outside of London.