Taiwan to launch contactless payment on airport metro line

Taoyuan Metro company will launch contactless payment via bank cards on January 16, 2020 to serve passengers traveling to and from the capital city of Taipei and Taoyuan International Airport.

The tap-and-go service will be open to holders of VISA, Mastercard, Union Pay, and JCB cards, as well as mobile devices with NFC (Near Field Communication) functions such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Taoyuan Metro announced last week the latest system of metro transportation convenience at a press conference ‘Smart Taoyuan Metro — smart cards lead you forward to the world’.

Taoyuan City Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan said the tap-and-go system for the rapid transit (MRT) line linking metropolitan Taipei and Taoyuan International Airport would bring more friendliness and convenience to both domestic and international travelers.

The introduction of the contactless payment was further evidence of Taoyuan Metro’s efforts to apply advanced technologies to serve passengers better since the airport metro line was opened two years ago, Mayor Cheng said.

During the first two years of operation, Taoyuan Metro introduced Wi-Fi networks and a QR Code system to streamline fare payment.

The mayor hoped Taoyuan Metro contactless payment would be expanded to all MRT lines in Taipei and other public transportation systems to benefit more riders.

The rapid transit system would continue its objectives of offering “safety, friendliness, intelligence and efficiency” to travelers as the airport MRT enters its third year of service, he added.

Taoyuan Metro Chairman Liu Kun-I ensured the public that more quality service lines would be offered.

From January 16, the speed payment will be open to passengers holding Visa, Master, and Union Pay cards, and those carrying JCB cards will enjoy the benefit from June, Liu said. All turnstiles at the 21 metro stations on the airport line would soon be supported by intelligent devices to accept payments.

The company expected to introduce third-party and e-payment later next year, Liu said.

Taoyuan Metro President Pu Her-Chang said the smart service would reduce the tedious ticket purchase process and reduce crowdedness, allowing visitors to enjoy an easy journey “forward to the world”.

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