Passengers in the East Midlands will begin testing a GPS-based digital ticketing system that allows them to tap in and out via a mobile app, automatically charging the best fare at the end of the day, with the trial expanding to Northern Rail routes connecting Harrogate, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster, and Barnsley from late September.

Up to 4,000 participants can join the trial by signing up on train operators' websites, with over 500 already expressing interest, as part of a broader effort to modernize and simplify the rail fare system.

This GPS technology, already tested successfully in Switzerland, Denmark, and Scotland, aims to improve passenger convenience by replacing traditional paper and QR code tickets, making travel more flexible and eliminating the need for advance planning.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy emphasized that the outdated ticketing system needs modernization to enhance efficiency and accessibility, highlighting that the new system could save time and money for travelers.

The UK government is funding nearly one million pounds for this project, which is part of a broader plan to overhaul and re-nationalize the rail system by 2027, including the creation of a new Great British Railways body.

The trial aims to reduce costs, streamline fare payments, and modernize the railway as part of government efforts to improve passenger experience and bring most operators into public ownership.

While the initiative seeks to simplify fare payments, concerns remain about accessibility for non-digital users, especially older adults, with research indicating that over five million people in the UK struggle with online services.

The nine-month trial, which is part of the government's Plan for Change, will help inform the future of rail management and is expected to contribute to the development of a new national rail body.

An additional trial involving 1,000 participants will be conducted on Northern services in Yorkshire from late September, using the same GPS-based digital payment system.

The new technology aims to replace traditional tickets, including paper and QR codes, providing more flexibility and removing the need for advance booking or planning.

Travelers are encouraged to save on fares by splitting tickets, booking early, using Railcards, and considering season or Carnet tickets for regular journeys.

The GPS-based ticketing trial will last nine months and is part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, with initial participation limited to 1,000 passengers per route.

This innovative system, tested in countries like Switzerland, Denmark, and Scotland, marks its first implementation in England, aiming to modernize the rail fare system and improve overall passenger experience.