From Thursday, January 16, Taoyuan Metro company will launch contactless payment via bank cards to serve passengers travelling to and from the capital city of Taipei and Taoyuan International Airport.
The tap-and-go service will open to holders of VIAS, Mastercard, Union Pay and JCB cards and mobile devices with NFC (Near Field Communication) functions such as Google Pay, Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.
In a press conference announcing the new contactless payment service two weeks ago, Taoyuan City Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan said the tap-and-go system for the rapid transit (MRT) line linking metropolitan Taipei and Taoyuan international airport would bring more friendliness and convenience to both domestic and international travellers.
The introduction of contactless payment strengthens Taoyuan Metro's efforts applying advanced technologies to better serve passengers since the airport metro line was opened two years ago.
During the two years of operation, Taoyuan Metro has introduced Wi-Fi networks and QR Code system to streamline fare payment.
The mayor hoped the contactless payment would be expanded to all MRT lines in Taipei and other public transportation systems to benefit more riders.
Taoyuan Metro would continue its objectives of offering "safety, friendliness, intelligence and efficiency" to travellers as the airport MTR enters its third year of service, he added.
Taoyuan Metro chairman Liu Kun-I ensured the public that more quality service line would be offered.
From January 16, the speed payment will open to passengers holding Visa, Master, and Union Pay cards, and those carrying JCB cards would enjoy the benefit from June, Liu said. All turnstiles at the 21 metro stations on the airport line would soon be supported by intelligent devices to accept the payments.
The company expected to introduce third-party and e-payment later next year, Liu said.
