E-ticketing Takes Effect Across Athens Transport System

Photo source: athenstransport.com

A new ticketing system using contactless technology has been put into effect on Athens transport requiring commuters to run e-tickets or smart cards by a barcode ticket scanner in order to travel on the city’s public network.

Paper tickets can no longer be used.

As of Monday, bar code scanning systems with automatic flap gates will gradually be put into effect at metro and train stations with gates shut by December 20. Only electronic ticketing options will be available, including the ATH.ENA smart cards as well as multiple ticket vouchers which can be topped up depending on travel needs for daily, five- or three-day travel and are valid on travel modes across Athens including Athens metro and express buses to Athens International Airport.

ATH.ENA cards are issued following application online at www.athenacard.gr.

Under the current discount pricing policy there’s a 50 cent discount when buying five tickets and with the purchase of 10 tickets one is free.

Athens Urban Transport Organisation (OASA) management aims to increase revenue as well as facilitate the commuter experience via faster ticket checking and at the same time offer a wider range of prices.

The EU has allocated 1.1 billion euros in order for advanced contactless ticketing technology to be implemented on the Thessaloniki metro system, Piraeus’ streetcar network and on the Athens-Patra suburban line.