People across Scotland can now use one ITSO smartcard across multiple modes of transport and multiple operators, following the completio
n of a joint transport improvement programme by the National Entitlement Card Programme Office, Young Scot and Transport Scotland.
The interoperability project brings transport operators together by integrating 16 previously unconnected ITSO smartcards. Instead of carrying multiple smartcards or paper tickets, travellers can now use one smartcard across Scotland’s bus, rail and subway network, once it is loaded with selected ITSO travel products.
Steve Wakeland, ITSO CEO, commented: “As the national standard in smart ticketing for public transport, ITSO is delighted to be part of this much smoother, more convenient travel solution in Scotland.
“Our aim is to make transport throughout the UK seamless and hassle-free through innovative smart ticketing technology. The way people choose to pay for and access their travel is constantly changing.
“Today passengers expect to unlock multi-modal, multi-operator journeys with one card or device, and that’s what this solution does. We are committed to supporting Transport Scotland as it delivers a smarter, more integrated transport system to the public.”
Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, added: “Our ambition has always been to see that some form of smart ticketing or payment can be used for all journeys across our public transport network. The interoperability improvement project is a fantastic step forward to achieving our vision for smart ticketing across Scotland.
“To tackle the climate emergency, improve our air quality and to benefit our health and wellbeing, we need to see less single-occupancy car trips and more sustainable journeys being made by walking, cycling and shared or public transport.
“By making ticketing for public transport simpler, we make it easier for passengers to use multiple-modes of travel with one smartcard instead of two or three. I’m confident this new convenience will be welcomed by customers right across Scotland.”
