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.
Full music programme revealed for Harrogate Food and Drink Festival
Court upholds council's decision on Harrogate Gateway scheme
Harrogate family take on Yorkshire Three Peaks to honour late mum
Ripon crowned Yorkshire's domestic tourism capital
Former Bed Restaurant owner reflects 10 years after closure
Harrogate Theatre pantomime nominated for national award
WATCH: Filming for All Creatures Great and Small takes place in Ripley
Harrogate MP blasts Mayor for failing to act on disabled bus pass restrictions
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind
Harrogate taekwondo master awarded MBE for long-standing contribution to sport
Harrogate dance group set for world record attempt
Gareth Southgate visits popular Harrogate pub
Classic car event set to return to Ripon
Ripon students take alcohol-free campaign to Parliament
Ripon's Grantley Hall named best place to stay in North and North East
Harrogate Mayor cuts ribbon at opening of new interior design shop
Celebrity chefs rally for Yorkshire children's cancer charity
Resurrected Bites CEO Michelle Hayes announces departure
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Harrogate recycling firm tips forecasts with £16.5m turnover despite tough trading
