All bus routes operated by BakuBus in Baku now fully support contactless payments using local bank cards with NFC, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
According to the Azerbaijan Urban Transport Agency (AYNA) under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, one of the main updates of the new system is the expanded consecutive payment feature. Passengers can now make up to 2 consecutive payments instead of 1. This feature is being introduced in the initial phase of the NFC project, with plans to increase the number of consecutive payments based on initial results.
The new system offers additional conveniences: passengers no longer need cash or a physical BakıKart. Payments can be made in seconds via phone, smartwatch, bank card, or any NFC-enabled device by simply bringing it close to the validator. The payment is instantly recognized and completed.
Passengers must use only NFC-enabled local bank cards, smartphones, or physical cards when paying on buses.
The pilot phase of the project was first implemented on route 500 on December 20. The NFC payment technology will gradually be expanded to other bus operators’ routes.
