Edinburgh Trams have confirmed that the new ”Tap on, Tap off” system will be fully introduced from Monday 19th May 2025. As revealed a few weeks ago this system will allow users to pay for their travel on the tram by tapping their contactless payment card or device onto platform validators at the start and end of their journeys rather than having to buy a physical ticket.
The announcement of the launch comes after months of testing, working alongside Lothian Buses and payment provider Flowbird to ensure the security and efficiency of the new system. The system works alongside Lothian Buses’ existing TapTapCap system to cap bus and tram travel across the city at the day ticket rate, seamlessly integrating buses and trams in Edinburgh.
Sarah Singh, Head of Service Delivery for Edinburgh Trams, said: “We are delighted to be able to share the launch date for this new payment system. The delivery of this project reflects months of hard work from colleagues across the business and Lothian Buses, to fully integrate ToTo into their existing system, and we’re pleased to be offering our best-ever service to customers across Edinburgh.”
Users need to remember to use the same payment device when tapping on and tapping off to ensure the correct deductions are made. Unlike the similar system on the buses, users must remember to tap off at the end of the journey owing to the two fare zones; anyone who fails to do so will be charged at the standard Airport zone daily cap. It is only available for standard adult fares with current concessionary pass holders continuing to use these as before. Anyone travelling as part of a group or with children should use the ticket machines as before, or the et app or the Bus & Tram app instead.
The system will calculate the cheapest fare based on the number of journeys taken and then debits the card in the early hours of the next morning.
Cllr Stephen Jenkinson, City of Edinburgh Council Transport Convener, said: “Integrating this new ToTo system across both Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses is a significant milestone for our public transport network and I’m excited that we’re only a couple weeks away from launch. This will allow residents and visitors to travel more efficiently and at the best value with ticket prices automatically capped at the cheapest daily and weekly rate.
“Our excellent public transport services is the most inclusive form of travel; it provides an alternative to car use especially for people on lower incomes or with mobility issues. Our integrated public transport system is something we’re very proud of here in Edinburgh – compared with similar sized cities we are an example to be celebrated and followed. Low carbon travel is also a key element of our wider climate ambitions and I’m sure this development will encourage greater use.
“I’d like to thank colleagues at both organisations for their efforts, and as a regular user of both bus and tram, I look forward to testing out the new system myself. I’m proud of the Council’s influence in delivering this key step through its ownership status of the operating companies and via direct investment. We’re committed to keeping Edinburgh moving and delivering the best possible public transport services for all.”