METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Conn. launches mobile ticketing for passenger rail

The app, CTrail eTix, is a more convenient way to pay rail fare without needing to carry and display a paper ticket.

February 17, 2020
Conn. launches mobile ticketing for passenger rail

The app can be used to purchase Shore Line East and Hartford Line tickets, with optional connecting service on New Haven Line (Metro-North) trains using a single device in one transaction.

Interstate Railfan

2 min to read


Courtesy CDOT

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) launched a mobile app providing commuters of the CTrail Hartford Line and Shore Line East with the ability to purchase tickets for the respective rail lines using their smartphone devices. The app, CTrail eTix, is a more convenient way to pay rail fare without needing to carry and display a paper ticket.

With CTrail eTix, passengers can purchase tickets using a credit or debit card and store them electronically on their device. When ready to use a mobile ticket, the passenger opens the CTrail eTix app and presses a button to activate the mobile ticket. After the ticket is activated, passengers then show it to the train conductor from their smartphone screen.

Ad Loading...

The app can be used to purchase Shore Line East and Hartford Line tickets, with optional connecting service on New Haven Line (Metro-North) trains using a single device in one transaction.

The app can be used to purchase Shore Line East and Hartford Line tickets, with optional connecting service on New Haven Line (Metro-North) trains using a single device in one transaction. Interstate Railfan

CTDOT conducted a pilot program of a beta version of the application in April 2019. In that pilot program, a selected group of CTrail passengers was able to complete purchases of mobile tickets and used the app to board CTrail trains. During the testing phase, the app was received with enthusiasm and users rated the application highly. Input and feedback from the pilot participants have been incorporated into CTrail eTix version 1.0, which is now available to the public for download and use.

More Rail

Railby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Chicago Region Transit Ridership Grows in 2025

The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.

Read More →
Managementby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Valley Metro Sees Strong Ridership Growth in 2025

The agency ranked top five among mid-sized U.S. transit systems, defined as agencies with 15 million to 50 million annual trips.

Read More →
Busby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Subway Customer Satisfaction Reaches Record High, New York MTA Says

The subway system saw increases across all key metrics, with 62% of subway riders reporting they feel satisfied with the system overall.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Managementby StaffJanuary 27, 2026

Keolis Retains Virginia Railway Express Contract

The new contract for Keolis and VRE will commence in July 2026, with the potential to expand to 15 years.

Read More →
Busby StaffJanuary 27, 2026

California's OCTA Advances 2026 Initiatives Centered on Balance and Sustainability

The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.

Read More →
Railby Staff and News ReportsJanuary 26, 2026

People Movement: Virginia's DRPT Names New Director and More

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at HDR, MCTS, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
ManagementJanuary 23, 2026

Seattle Sound Transit Sets Launch Date for Crosslake Connection

This final component of the 2 Line will cross Lake Washington and connect with the 1 Line at International District/Chinatown Station, creating a fully integrated regional light rail system.

Read More →
A blue and white graphic with a map of the proposed study area for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor and text reading "LA Metro Approves Underground Rail for Sepulveda Transit Corridor."
RailJanuary 23, 2026

LA Metro Approves Underground Rail for Sepulveda Transit Corridor

The agency’s selection aims to slash travel times from the San Fernando Valley to the Westside to under 20 minutes.

Read More →
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

Florida's Tri-Rail Taps Siemens Mobility for Modern Locomotive Procurement

Expected to enter service in 2029, these locomotives support the agency’s commitment to offer reliable and efficient rail transportation across South Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Rendering of an Austin Light Rail station.
RailJanuary 20, 2026

Austin Transit Partnership Advances Federal Funding Process for Light Rail Project

See how the agency’s transit project completed a Final Environmental Impact Statement within the federal two-year guideline.

Read More →