Helsinki's regional transport authority HSL has had to reintroduce human ticket selling services in some stations after a shortage of ticket sales points left many passengers waiting for hours following the withdrawal of onboard ticket sales.
HSL had in June reassigned conductors from their previous role selling tickets in certain coaches of local trains, informing passengers that they should purchase tickets in advance. There was a shortage of ticket machines, however, with some stations left without any possibility to buy tickets.
Helsingin Sanomat reported that there were also long queues at Helsinki Airport as confused tourists arrived seeking to purchase tickets at one of only two surface-level ticket machines, with reports of some people forced to wait up to 40 minutes during peak periods.
Roaming the network
HSL says the return of ticket vendors is primarily to cater to visitors from abroad.
"In August with the extra help we can also make ticket sales easier," said HSL press officer Sari Kotikangas.
The pairs of ticket-selling staff will roam the network, with a focus on the places where most passengers are and where there is a lack of ticket-purchasing facilities.
"There are more passengers on the move at the Central Railway station and the airport," said Kotikangas. "We'll try to select those places where there's a need for ticket sales and where people really need the assistance. We're now trying to work out where the sellers will be the most help."
Kotikangas says there is even a chance that ticket sellers might remain around the network after August as well.
Tickets for public transport in the capital city region can be purchased at self-service machines, certain retail outlets including R-kioski branches, and via a mobile app.
