Klaipėda introduces new e-ticketing system and minibuses
In April, a new e-ticketing system was introduced on public transport in Klaipėda (Lithuania), one of the five CIVITAS PORTIS project cities. Initially, it is being trialled in a fleet of new minibuses.
Various ticketing options covering are available, including pay-as-you-go, daily, and monthly tickets, alongside one for use during the working week. These can be used across the public transport network.
A capping system is also in effect for pay-as-you-go users. If a passenger travels more than four times on the same day using local services, then the amount they spend is capped at the value of four tickets. In addition, it is possible to pay for multiple passengers using the same card.
The option to purchase a paper ticket remains, but these will be more expensive than journeys booked using travel cards.
Switching to the fully electronic system will enable Klaipėda's public transport authority to collect more detailed passenger and trip information, such as trip length and journey frequency.
The roll-out of e-ticketing on to all public buses should completed by October 2018.
The new minibuses have been adapted to the needs of different user groups. More space has been allocated for people with reduced mobility and parents with prams, whilst the e-ticket scanners will be located in the same place on all vehicles to ease travel for people with visual impairments.
New screens at public transport stops and on the outside of minibuses will relay real-time travel information, such as the route number and journey progress, further improving the passenger experience.
Vytautas Grubliauskas, the Mayor of Klaipėda, comments that "Klaipėda's public transport system continues to be an example for the whole of Lithuania. The quality of service of our minibuses continues to increase – passengers are offered a new level of comfort, new payment methods, and updated routes".
