Slovakia’s ZSSK Pilots FAIRTIQ Mobile Ticketing

ZSSK launches a one-year mobile ticketing pilot using FAIRTIQ, simplifying travel on Slovakian railways.

Slovakia’s ZSSK Pilots FAIRTIQ Mobile Ticketing
September 6, 2025 8:00 pm
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Introduction

ZSSK, Slovakia’s national railway operator, has selected FAIRTIQ to implement a nationwide mobile pay-as-you-go (MPAYG) ticketing pilot commencing in January 2026. This initiative aims to simplify public transport access and provide insights into passenger mobility patterns across the country.

Project Overview

The pilot project, scheduled for a one-year duration, will encompass all domestic railway routes operated by ZSSK. Key routes such as the Tatra Electric Railway (TEŽ) and the Cogwheel Railway (OŽ) are included in the pilot. Passengers will use the FAIRTIQ app to start and end their journeys, eliminating the need for pre-planning routes or selecting fare zones.

Implementation Details

The pilot is designed to go live in the coming months. The system will automatically calculate fares based on the distance traveled and ZSSK’s fare policy. Passengers will be able to check in at the beginning of their journey and check out at the end, streamlining the ticketing process without the need for traditional ticket machines or paper tickets.

Strategic Alignment

This initiative aligns with ZSSK’s modernization strategy, which focuses on being a stable and attractive employer, offering modern trains and services, and ensuring financial strength and stability. The strategy emphasizes innovation and digitalization to enhance passenger comfort and improve service efficiency.

Data and Benefits

The nationwide ticketing pilot will generate anonymized data on passenger travel patterns. This data will assist ZSSK in better understanding demand and tailoring services. The project aims to create a more seamless and user-focused public transport experience across Slovakia, potentially leading to a long-term solution.

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Conclusion

The ZSSK’s pilot project, using FAIRTIQ, will begin in January 2026 and run for a year on domestic railway routes, including TEŽ and OŽ. The project aims to simplify access to public transport by using a mobile pay-as-you-go system, gathering data on travel patterns. If the pilot is successful, it could lead to a long-term national ticketing solution.

Company Summary

ZSSK: Slovakia’s national railway operator.

FAIRTIQ: Selected by ZSSK to implement a nationwide mobile pay-as-you-go (MPAYG) ticketing pilot.