CTrail eTix app now accepts apple pay and google pay, offers easier account login

Improvements have been made to the CTrail eTix mobile app, which provides CTrail Hartford Line and Shore Line East riders with the ability to purchase tickets using smartphone devices. 

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) says the app is a more convenient way to pay rail fares without needing to carry and display a paper ticket. The app now accepts both Apple Pay and Google Pay, and allows users to log in using Face ID/Touch ID (Apple) or fingerprint (Android).

“These improvements will make CTrail eTix much more user friendly,” said CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti. “The app first launched in February of this year, and contactless ticketing has become especially important during this pandemic. If you are planning to ride the Hartford Line or Shore Line East, I encourage you to download and try the eTix app to see how easy and convenient it is to use.” 

“The addition of Apply Pay and Google Pay to CTrail eTix is the result of our continuing commitment to the customer experience,” said Public Transportation Bureau Chief Rich Andreski. “Travel on public transportation should be as easy and convenient as possible.” 

The app login experience has been enhanced by adding biometric security - the option to turn on Face ID or Touch ID in Apple’s iOS or fingerprint authentication on Android devices. Previously, users needed to manually enter their password to ensure the security of their ticket purchases from within the app. 

With CTrail eTix, customers can now purchase tickets using Google Pay or Apple Pay in addition to a credit or debit card and store them electronically on their device. When ready to use a mobile ticket, the customer simply opens the CTrail eTix app and presses a button to activate the mobile ticket. After the ticket is activated, customers then show their smartphone screen to their train conductor. 

The app can be used to purchase Shore Line East and Hartford Line tickets, with optional connecting service on New Haven Line (Metro-North Railroad) trains using a single device for one transaction. In addition, customers utilizing the stations in Berlin and Wallingford have the ability to purchase parking through the app.