MTA’s new app combines LIRR, Metro-North ticket purchasing and trip planning
Image courtesy of Marc A. Hermann / MTA on Flickr
The Metropolitan Transporation Authority on Wednesday launched an enhanced version of its TrainTime app that combines ticket purchases for the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad and includes a seat availability tracker, real-time train movement, and in-app customer support. The app allows users to log in using their Apple ID, Google account, or through text message, and purchase tickets using Apple Pay.
Photo courtesy of the MTA
Before the revamped TrainTime app, commuters had to use two apps to plan their commute, the original TrainTime app to plan the trip, and the MTA eTix app to purchase tickets. Now, both features are taken care of within a single platform. Through the app, customers can search for their train and quickly purchase tickets within seconds.
A highly-anticipated feature of the new app is real-time train movement and seating availability tracking. In preparation for the app’s update, GPS sensors were installed on the entire LIRR and Metro-North train fleet, according to an MTA press release.
Customers will be able to track the exact location of their train before and after they board, as well as view their exact car number and its current capacity.
“For years the top request from customers has been to include a mobile ticketing option within TrainTime. We have delivered on that ask, while also providing great features,” Catherine Rinaldi, Metro-North President and LIRR Interim President, said.
“Everything from seat availability tracking, reliable train-tracking and in-app support are all at a riders’ fingertips. I cannot thank our in-house development team enough for delivering on a project that riders from New Haven to Montauk can equally benefit from.”
TrainTime will also provide an in-app customer service chat which is accessible by tapping “Chat with us” on the app’s “Status” tab.
The enhanced app will make it easier to transfer between the Metro-North and LIRR when Grand Central Madison opens to the public later this year.
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