A revolution in access to public transport
From June, users of the Madrid Metro will be able to enjoy a new way to access the metropolitan network: through payment by bank card and mobile devices. This innovative measure, announced by the Minister of Housing, Transport and Infrastructure, Jorge Rodrigo, during an event organised by Europa Press, aims to facilitate and streamline the travel experience for Madrileños.
The implementation of the system will include the installation of approximately 900 smart turnstiles at the 303 stations that make up the network. These new devices will not only allow the use of cards such as Visa and Mastercard, but will also be equipped with EMV technology and QR code readers. This means that users will simply be able to bring their card or mobile close to the turnstile for access without the need to purchase a ticket beforehand.
The main objective behind this modernisation is to reduce waiting times at the turnstiles and improve service efficiency. The new system is designed to automatically calculate the most favourable fare for each user, grouping validations into a single transaction. This process will be managed through the MT –Mobility and Transport Transactional system, which will store information about accesses made over a certain period.
Despite this transition towards a more digitised model, the new method will be fully compatible with the Public Transport Card (TTP), allowing users to continue using their traditional methods without inconvenience. Since last July, card payment has already been implemented on intercity buses, demonstrating a continued commitment to modernising public transport in Madrid.
This advancement is part of a broader project funded by European funds under the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Mechanism. The Community of Madrid is committed to transforming its infrastructure to meet the current and future needs of urban transport.
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