NYC Subway Launches Tap-to-Pay System in 16 Manhattan and Brooklyn Stations
New York City's MTA introduces the OMNY contactless fare system, allowing riders to pay for subways and Staten Island buses using smartphones, wearables, and tap-enabled credit cards. The full rollout across all 472 stations is scheduled for completion by October 2020.
New York City's massive subway system officially ditches its old swipe-card system and launches a new tap-and-go payment method called OMNY. Starting immediately, riders at 16 stations along the 4/5/6 line and on Staten Island buses pay their fares simply by tapping their personal devices or credit cards at the turnstiles.
Commuters use iPhones, Android phones, Fitbits, or any contactless credit and debit card that features the tap-to-pay symbol. For those who lack a tap-enabled card, purchasing a prepaid Visa or Mastercard with the correct logo serves as a quick workaround while banks distribute upgraded cards to customers.
This initial launch serves as a pilot program before the Metropolitan Transit Authority expands the technology to the rest of the network. The MTA plans to add more stations starting in December and expects the entire 472-station system to support tap-to-pay functionality by October 2020.