Bus app will show passenger numbers on service
UPDATE TO HELP DISTANCING RULES
FIRST Bus have given a complete overhaul to their app which will allow passengers to see exactly how many people are onboard each service.
The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on bus services, with the government advising people to avoid using public transport unless they have no other option.
Social distancing guidelines have also seen just one in four seats made available on First buses across West Yorkshire, as the company looks to introduce ways to keep services running while keeping it safe.
For those who are apprehensive about getting onto a packed bus, First have refreshed their app to show live data about the number of people onboard on each and every service.
The app update, which was launched this week, will show customers abusicon on a map to depict the live location and available capacity of each vehicle in the vicinity. No other UK bus operator has launched such an innovative service.
Martin Hirst, commercial director of First West Yorkshire, said: “This is another way we’re using technology to ensure safe, informed travel during these difficult times. Our buses provide an essential service for our customers and we are doing all we can to support them.”
A new passenger-counting system was introduced on all First buses during May to make the update possible. Data from this system feeds directly to the FirstBusapp in real time.
Around 60,000 people make payments through the First app on average, but last month that dropped to just 11,750 payments.
The app update coincides with First West Yorkshire increasing the number of services across the county.
Transport chiefs say they are confident of providing “safe, socially-distanced, essential journeys” in Halifax, Calder Valley, Huddersfield and Leeds, with the new timetables which came into effect from May 31.
Martin Hirst said: “To further support social distancing, and in addition to passenger counting, seats on eachbusare now clearly marked indicating where customers should sit.”
Customers are being encouraged to make cashless payments on all journeys if possible, with the preferred method of payment being through the First Bus app, which you can download from your phone’s app store.