More than five million contactless journeys have now been completed on Metrolink services in Manchester since the launch of the pay-as-you-go contactless service in July 2019.
Emulating the contactless travel seen in London, the touch in/touch out system implemented on the tram network has allowed customers to travel quickly, securely, and flexibly across the network without the need to download an app or buy a paper ticket.
With easy, flexible travel across all modes of public transport in Greater Manchester a key ambition for Mayor Andy Burnham, the milestone represents a clear willingness to take up contactless travel by residents and visitors to Manchester.
Recent events in Manchester, such as the Parklife festival, a return of supporters to football matches at Old Trafford, and more staff returning to offices, saw a remarkable 123,000 contactless journeys made across the network on the week of September 6, 2021.
In September, the contactless fare system was further enhanced by the rollout of the Bee Flex Weekly, meaning customers can travel across the Metrolink network in confidence, knowing they will never pay more than a seven-day travel pass when tapping in and out with a contactless bank card or device.
Manchester’s Metrolink service officially broke the 5 million journeys mark on September 17, 2021.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “By making tram travel easier, more flexible and providing value for money for our residents and visitors, pay-as-you-go has been a real game-changer for Metrolink customers.
“I’m delighted by how well it’s been received and I’m sure its popularity will only grow following the recent introduction of the Bee Flex Weekly.
“It shows what we can deliver locally and is exactly what I want to see across – and integrated with – all our other modes of transport.
“Our plans are ambitious but achievable and can be the foundations for levelling up the north. Having the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester is a great opportunity not only for me to share our vision with government but discuss how we can work together to get there – because ultimately we need them to come with us on this journey.”
