Alliance Swisspass, the Swiss public transport association, plans to introduce a new ticketing system called myRide. This new system aims to simplify and digitize ticket purchases. Concerns have arisen that popular subscriptions, such as the Halftax pass, which over 3.3 million Swiss residents use, might be removed or significantly altered. Swisspass officials have denied the complete abolition of the Halftax pass, but details about its future pricing and function remain unclear.
Key Takeaways
- Alliance Swisspass is introducing a new digital ticketing system, myRide.
- The new system aims to simplify and digitize public transport ticket purchases.
- Concerns exist that popular passes like the Halftax, Sparbilletts, and multi-journey tickets may be replaced.
- Swisspass officials state the Halftax will continue to exist, but changes to its function and price are possible.
- The new system could mean higher costs for current Halftax users.
New Ticketing System: myRide Details
The Alliance Swisspass intends to "radically simplify and digitize" the public transport pricing structure through its new myRide system. This initiative will replace the current complex array of tickets and passes. The goal is to streamline the purchasing process for travelers across Switzerland.
Under the proposed myRide system, the process for buying tickets will resemble the existing Easyride function in the SBB app. Passengers will activate a recording function at the start of their journey. Once they reach their destination, they will stop the recording, and the app will calculate the cheapest fare for the route taken.
Halftax Pass Usage
More than 3.3 million people in Switzerland currently hold a Halftax pass. This pass allows them to pay half price on public transport tickets. Its sales have steadily increased since 2015, highlighting its popularity among commuters and travelers.
Impact on Popular Subscriptions
Reports from the consumer magazine K-Tipp suggest that several popular subscriptions, including the Halftax pass, could be eliminated. Other tickets potentially affected include Sparbilletts (saver tickets), Mehrfahrtenkarten (multi-journey tickets), and 9-Uhr-Pässe (9 AM passes). These would be replaced by a new, potentially more complex discount system.
According to K-Tipp, the new system might involve a monthly basic fee. Subscribers would then receive a discount on the full ticket price. The size of this discount would depend on how much they travel by train, bus, tram, or boat.
"Despite full knowledge of the relevant facts, the K-Tipp editorial team deliberately chose a false title and misrepresented facts. The truth is that the public transport sector is working on introducing a new pricing system." — Alliance Swisspass Statement
Swisspass Denies Halftax Abolition
Following the K-Tipp article, Alliance Swisspass officials issued a statement denying the complete removal of the Halftax pass. They emphasized that the public transport sector is indeed working on a new pricing system. However, they stated that a Halftax pass would still exist after the introduction of any new system.
Despite this assurance, the exact nature of the future Halftax pass remains uncertain. Questions about its price and functionality under the myRide transition are still unanswered. Bern News Today has reached out to Alliance Swisspass for further clarification on these details.
Potential Price Changes for Passengers
During a multi-year transition phase, customers will have the option to choose between the current and the new pricing systems. Alliance Swisspass officials told K-Tipp that new ticket prices would fall between current Halftax rates and full fares. This suggests a middle ground for pricing, but it could mean higher costs for many.
While full prices might be lower than they are today, the potential changes could lead to increased costs for the 3.3 million Halftax users. This is a significant concern for many who rely on the pass for affordable travel.
Current Halftax Benefits
The annual Halftax pass costs 190 Swiss Francs. It allows passengers to purchase public transport tickets at half their original price. This makes public transport more accessible and affordable for regular users.
Concerns for Low-Income Travelers
Niels Jost from Caritas, a social welfare organization, has voiced concerns about the potential impact on lower-income individuals. He noted that poorer people already face travel restrictions due to costs. The removal of existing savings options would be problematic for them.
The new system aims for digital-first ticket purchases. Reports indicate that only those who buy tickets via their mobile phones will receive discounts. A monthly fee of 15 Swiss Francs is suggested, with subscribers potentially benefiting from significantly cheaper tickets after the first month compared to purchasing at ticket machines.
Decision-Making Process
The Strategic Council of Alliance Swisspass will decide on the new price structure and subscription models. This council includes representatives from major transport providers like SBB, Postauto, and ZVV. Approval from other tariff associations and public transport companies is also necessary.
Helmut Eichhorn, CEO of Alliance Swisspass, expressed confidence that a majority of stakeholders will support the planned changes. The transition will be a significant undertaking, affecting millions of daily commuters and occasional travelers across Switzerland.
The public will need clear communication regarding the changes. Understanding how the new system will affect individual travel costs and habits is important. The multi-year transition phase is designed to help users adapt to the new digital approach.