UK Government Launches GPS Digital Ticketing Trials Across East Midlands, Yorkshire

The UK government is launching a series of GPS-based digital ticketing trials across the Northern Rail and East Midlands Railway networks as part of a broader initiative to modernize the rail system ahead of the establishment of Great British Railways in 2027. These trials, scheduled to begin between September and November and last nine months, will allow up to 4,000 volunteers to participate, with up to 1,000 passengers on each route. Unlike previous pay-as-you-go systems that used contactless payment at barriers, this new technology will track passengers' journeys via GPS on their mobile devices and automatically calculate the best fare. The trials aim to simplify ticketing, improve passenger experience, and support the government's rail reform program, with strong endorsements from Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy and commercial directors from the rail companies involved. Trainline PLC has been selected as a technology supplier for these trials, providing an in-app solution that could influence future rollouts across the UK. The initiative represents a significant step towards more intuitive, customer-friendly rail services and is part of ongoing efforts to attract more passengers back to rail travel.