Metro and tram fares in Istanbul are changing

Preparations for a new fare system affecting passengers using the metro and tram in Istanbul are nearing completion. Once the work is finished, it is planned to introduce fare refund kiosks on these lines, just as they are used on the Metrobus.

The goal of the new system is to regulate the fare difference between short-distance and long-distance travelers. Under the current practice, a passenger traveling the shortest distance on the metro and tram pays the same fare as a passenger using a longer section of the line.

According to the information provided, infrastructure work at some stations has reached the completion stage. While the locations where the refund devices will be installed have been determined, it is stated that the electrical wiring for these areas has also been completed.

In the current tariff applicable to metros and trams, a full fare ticket is 46.20 TL, a student ticket is 22.55 TL, a student ticket for those over 30 is 41.58 TL, and a social ticket is 33.08 TL.

In the distance-based pricing system, the distance between the station where the passenger boards and the station where they exit will be taken into account. Thus, for short-distance trips, a partial refund of the fare paid will be on the agenda.

A similar application is already in effect on Metrobus lines. On the Metrobus, a 1-stop trip for a full fare ticket is priced at 33.08 TL, 3 stops at 46.20 TL, 10-15 stops at 58 TL, and 34-43 stops at 68.59 TL. For students, 1 stop is 14.58 TL, 3 stops are 18.48 TL, and 10-15 stops and beyond are 22.55 TL.

It has not yet been clarified when the new system will begin on metro and tram lines. As part of the regulation, it is expected that prices will be re-determined based on the number of stops and that the issue will be brought to the agenda of UKOME.