Flowbird ticketing technology adopted in Madeira within a new integrated public transport offer

The autonomous Portuguese islands of Madeira and Porto Santo have unveiled a new integrated ticketing system that will transform access to millions of bus journeys for local people and visitors. 

The project, delivered by the Autonomous Region of Madeira, brings together three bus operators in a new network called SIGA, with passengers and operators benefiting from multi-channel retailing technology. 

A new public transport network in Madeira

Flowbird systems integrate with applications developed by Flowbird’s partner in the region, Neves & Neves. As part of the new solution, passengers can now use the newly introduced GIRO smartcard, paper tickets or passenger app across multiple transport operators (namely Companhia de Autocarros da Madeira, Siga Rodoeste and Horários do Funchal).

As part of the procurement award, Flowbird states it has supplied over 500 bus driver consoles and on-bus validators, along with self-service ticket vending machines which support smartcard purchase and top-up. 

The GIRO smartcard aims to improve mobility in Madeira and Porto Santo by simplifying the travel experience for residents and visitors, and enhance network performance by providing bus operators with a centralised ticketing and retailing function. The next phase will see vehicle locations and arrival times displayed in vehicles and at stops.

Paul Rogers, Flowbird Transport Sales & Marketing Director, says: “The delivery of this integrated system is a great example of working in partnership with our value-added reseller Neves & Neves. It’s a system which makes it easier for people to access public transport on Madeira and therefore simplifies millions of journeys each year for local people and tourists.”