by dcipjr
I've been using a Key card for my Trailpass this month, and it's been a real eye-opener. I would say that about a third of the time, the conductor on the train just sees the card and moves on. When they do scan it, it beeps and accepts (I guess) the card most of the time, but the conductor usually moves on as soon as it indicates that the card is read -- I can see that there's a display that shows the status of the card that comes up later, but it's several seconds later.
I have to wonder whether this is why the Key doesn't support single trips on the regional rail yet -- there's a good chance that the conductor wouldn't even collect the virtual ticket.
It's ironic, considering that SEPTA was so intent on avoiding proof-of-payment on the railroad, and yet we've essentially wound up with the honor system anyway -- just without the fines!
One wonders how much revenue they're losing, between having to pay the transit ambassadors, having to support two modes of ticketing, needless infrastructure (faregates and fencing), and fare evasion, which is now easier than ever.
I have to wonder whether this is why the Key doesn't support single trips on the regional rail yet -- there's a good chance that the conductor wouldn't even collect the virtual ticket.
It's ironic, considering that SEPTA was so intent on avoiding proof-of-payment on the railroad, and yet we've essentially wound up with the honor system anyway -- just without the fines!
One wonders how much revenue they're losing, between having to pay the transit ambassadors, having to support two modes of ticketing, needless infrastructure (faregates and fencing), and fare evasion, which is now easier than ever.