The number of customers using digital tickets on Northern trains has hit a new monthly high.
Over 70% of all journeys between 5th January and 1st February were made using digital tickets.
On its highest single day, the number was almost 80% (79.5%).
It follows significant investment by Northern in its digital ticket infrastructure in recent years, making it easier to buy a ticket via its app, website or one of more than 600 ticket vending machines across the network.
For those who prefer a paper ticket, they can still be bought over the counter from ticket offices at staffed stations.
Alex Hornby, commercial and customer director at Northern, said:
“The demand for digital ticketing is only going in one direction and to exceed 70% of all journeys over the month is a real milestone.
“All of our trains have a conductor on board and by scanning tickets digitally we’re able to track much better where and when customers are travelling, which helps with service planning.
“However, this is a real endorsement from our customers on the convenience of buying tickets on their own devices online and on the Northern app.
"As many stations can be unstaffed, digital ticketing or ticket vending machines can be our customers’ most practical option, but our teams at those stations with ticket offices will continue to provide a friendly, ‘over the counter’ service for those who prefer a paper ticket.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said:
“The rail ticketing system we inherited was too complicated, and this proves that people want simpler options that make it easier to travel by train.
“We’re listening to passengers and will be introducing even more fare reforms across the country including rolling out contactless ticketing in the North, making our railways simpler, more accessible and more flexible.”
In April 2023, Northern declared the future ‘bright, but not orange’ as it reported the number of orange ‘magstripe’ tickets used across its network dropped by five million.
In June last year, it predicted magstripe tickets could be a museum exhibit within five years as 2.3 million fewer tickets were used by customers making journeys.
Conservative councillors take swipes at Reform amid budget talks
Date revealed for Knaresborough Tractor Run
Yorkshire Air Ambulance appoints new CEO
Council to increase council tax by maximum after £43m "wallop" from government
Harrogate dad takes on 40,000-mile yacht race for bereavement charity
Harrogate BID backs return of town's popular Restaurant Week
Cost of Harrogate garden bin licence revealed
Spirit of Harrogate to enter administration
Call for council to support pubs and hospitality businesses
Ripon MP says Kex Gill realignment scheme is making 'good progress'
Northern Powergrid issue update on Leeds Road traffic lights
Sir Stephen Fry sends mental health message to Harrogate College students
Harrogate Cat Rescue appeals for urgent support as vet bills soar
Cuts may be needed to balance budget at North Yorkshire Police
Harrogate BID unveils full programme for town's Self Care Week
Pateley hit-and-run: Man charged with two further offences
Opinions sought on new specialist autism school in Harrogate
Harrogate MP sparks Parliamentary debate on water bosses flouting bonus ban
New sandwich shop opens on Knaresborough Road
Knaresborough girl named St John Ambulance Badger of the Year
