Duluth Transit Authority (DTA) and Saskatoon Transit are partnering with Masabi to launch account-based ticketing (ABT) throughout its systems, joining Halifax Transit, Collier Area Transit and other transit agencies who recently implemented ABT on their systems in partnership with Masabi.

DTA expands myDTA fare system

DTA is expanding its myDTA fare system with the launch of ABT and open payments. The expansion builds on the myDTA mobile ticketing app DTA launched in May 2021.

“Making transit work for every rider in the Twin Ports has always been at the heart of what we do at DTA,” said DTA Director of Marketing David Clark. “With the expanded myDTA system, riders can now pay in the way that suits them best, whether that’s the myDTA app, the More smartcard or simply tapping their bank card or phone at the validator. Everyone gets the same great fare and the same benefits, and we are proud to be delivering on that promise for our community.”

With ABT, riders can now tap and ride using either the myDTA app or the new More smartcard. The agency notes there is no need to choose a ticket or pass in advance, as the system automatically calculates and deducts the correct fare from a rider’s account at the point of boarding. Fares are capped at $3 per day and $40 per month, with additional discounts applied for eligible riders, ensuring every rider always pays the lowest possible fare.

With open payments, riders now have more ways to pay, with the option to tap any contactless Visa or Mastercard bank card, a prepaid card or a mobile wallet directly on the validators onboard the bus. Riders who pay by contactless card or mobile wallet can also link their payment to a myDTA account, unlocking trip history, discounted fares and concessions.

“Account-based ticketing and open payments are most powerful when they work together, and DTA is the perfect illustration of that point,” said Masabi CEO Brian Zanghi. “We are delighted to support DTA at this stage of its journey with Masabi. Building on five years of partnership, the expanded myDTA system ensures that no rider in the Twin Ports ever pays more than they should, regardless of how they choose to pay.”

Saskatoon Transit introduces ABT to its system

Saskatoon Transit is bringing ABT to its transit system. Riders can now Tap & Ride, top up their TGo smart card or account and check their balances whenever it suits them, through the updated Transit Go app or the refreshed web portal. According to the agency, riders can continue purchasing mobile ticket fare products or using cash fares.

Saskatoon Transit is also deploying Masabi's Justride Inspect app to support fare compliance across the network. Inspect runs on the agency’s handheld devices.

“These upgrades mark another important step toward making transit more convenient and accessible for the community,” said Saskatoon Transit Director Michael Moellenbeck. “By continuing to modernize how riders manage and pay their fares, we’re building a more flexible, customer-focused system that meets today’s needs and those of the future."