London's transport network notches up one billion contactless journeys

TfL: The billionth journey using contactless payment on London's transport network has been made
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The billionth journey using contactless payment on capital’s public transport network has been made, Transport for London has confirmed.

Since the technology was introduced in December 2012 its popularity has rocketed, with it now making up 40 per cent of all pay as you go trips.

Most of those payments were made using credit or debit cards, but commuters are now using mobile apps, key fobs, stickers and wristbands to access the network.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the dramatic increase in contactless use is an example of progress TfL has made “making journeys easier and more convenient” for Londoners.

Mr Khan said: "London continues to lead the way in terms of contactless payment around the world, and the money we make selling TfL's innovation and expertise to other major global cities will allow us to put further money into improving London's own transport network."

The 40 per cent of commuters using contactless last year is up from 25 per cent in 2016, according to the rail operator.

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