Earlier this month the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) launched a pilot of the new MTS mTicket system in collaboration with Masabi, a company specializing in mobile ticketing services for transit. The MTS mTicket app lets riders use their smartphones to pre-purchase day passes to Aztec football and Chargers games.
On Aug. 31 MTS hosted a trial launch of the new technology at the San Diego State trolley station prior to the Aztec’s game against Eastern Illinois. During the trial, students were able to download the app and purchase tickets within minutes. More than 900 mTickets were sold as a result.
Chief executive officer of MTS Paul Jablonski emphasizes the benefits of introducing the mobile ticketing system.
“This new product is a game changer for our riders …” Jablonski said in a MTS press release. “Now they don’t need to wait in line to buy a ticket. They can buy a trolley pass to the game anywhere, anytime. It adds a level of convenience that our customers want.”
The mTicket app is free and can be found in the App store for iPhone users and in Google Play for Android devices. After downloading, riders can buy their trolley day passes using credit or debit cards. The subsequent process from the initial download to completion of purchase can take as little as 20 seconds. Riders are able to use the ticket on the same day, or store it in their smartphone for later use.
Public Relations Specialist for MTS Regena Kowitz explained the added benefits of using the mTicket app.
“I was at the game this past Saturday and it was so hot, all the riders were waiting in long lines to buy tickets when they had their smartphones in their hands,” Kowitz said. “SDSU students are the perfect audience for this app; you don’t have to wait in line and one person can buy up to five passes for your group.”
The mTicket day pass can be purchased for $5.50 and used for unlimited rides on game days for all MTS trolley lines. The day pass also allows riders exclusive use of the express lane when entering the platform.
Although the system has already seen successful results, Kowitz said the project is still a work in progress.
“The mTicket is a pilot program, and is only available for trolley day passes on game days,” Kowtiz said. “If all goes well, and riders use the mTickets, this could become an additional everyday way to purchase tickets.”
The mTicket Trolley Day Passes will also be available for the upcoming Holiday and Poinsettia Bowls.
Journalism & media studies senior Vivian Cao expresses her enthusiasm for the new ticketing system.
“I think it is a really good idea and will make things much faster,” Cao said. “I would definitely use this for a Chargers game or for the Aztec football games; I’d rather do that than print out a ticket.”
History senior Carlo Nunneri also said the app will provide more accessibility.
“It seems like a faster and more efficient way to ride the trolley,” Nunneri said. “I’m looking forward to using it in the future.”
