Since early 2008 all Gothenburg citizens aged 65 years and older have travelled free of charge on all municipal public transport vehicles, except during peak periods. The designated peak periods are Monday-Friday 06:00 – 08:30 and 15:00 – 18:00.

All eligible persons in the city have received an application for a free travel pass, which must be filled in and sent to Västtrafik. An unexpectedly large number of persons have applied. Since the incentive was introduced, more than 65,000 senior citizens have obtained the free pass –and the number is increasing.

The municipalities surrounding Gothenburg are discussing similar schemes, but there are no final decisions yet. The free transportation scheme does not include the Flex lines and Special Transport Service (for older people and the disabled), and those who use those services are arguing that they should be included as well. Trips on Flex lines have decreased by 20 percent, as many people are opting for free transportation instead of paying to ride a Flex line.

Even with Flex-line travel down by 20 percent, the free transportation scheme has cost the city little – approximately EUR 5 million. The travel cards are valid for one year, but due to the programme’s success, newly issued cards will be valid for three years.

Author: Ragnar Domstad