Contents
Revolution at PKP Intercity: No More Waking Up for Ticket Checks on Trains
For many travelers, a long train journey is an ideal opportunity to relax, read, or catch up on much-needed sleep. However, the traditional process of conductors waking passengers for ticket verification has long been a common disruption on PKP Intercity trains. Good news for weary travelers: this practice is set to become a thing of the past.
PKP Intercity, Poland’s national long-distance rail operator, is actively developing an innovative automatic check-in system designed to streamline travel and ensure a more peaceful journey for passengers.
How Automatic Check-in Will Transform Your Train Journey
One of the most anticipated new services from PKP Intercity in 2026 is the introduction of “self check-in.” This cutting-edge mechanism aims to provide conductors with real-time information regarding valid tickets for specific seats, thereby eliminating the need for manual checks that often disturb passengers.
Seamless, App-Based Verification
The proposed check-in system will function via a dedicated smartphone application, mirroring the convenience and efficiency of airline check-in processes. This means passengers will be able to confirm their presence and ticket validity digitally, allowing them to enjoy their journey undisturbed.
Initial Rollout on Pendolino Trains
According to reports from Rynek Kolejowy, the first trials of this automatic check-in system are scheduled to take place on EIP trains, more commonly known as Pendolino. While the initial focus is on these high-speed services, it remains to be seen whether standard PKP Intercity trains will also adopt this system by 2026.
Beyond Check-in: Enhanced Travel Features
The upcoming changes at PKP Intercity extend beyond just automatic check-in, promising a more integrated and user-friendly travel experience.
Advanced Seat Selection
A significant improvement will be the ability to select seats online not just for direct routes, but also for connecting journeys. Previously, this flexibility was limited exclusively to direct train connections, making multi-leg trips less convenient to plan.
Mobile Journey Tracking
The PKP Intercity mobile application will be upgraded to include a feature that allows passengers to track their own journey progress. This eliminates the constant need to glance at onboard screens or rely on announcements, offering greater autonomy and peace of mind during travel.
Improved Onboard Connectivity
To support these new digital features and enhance the overall passenger experience, all train cars are expected to be equipped with network access. This is a crucial improvement, especially for journeys through rural areas where mobile network coverage, including 5G, can often be unreliable, ensuring continuous connectivity for work, entertainment, or staying in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is PKP Intercity’s new automatic check-in system?
It’s a “self check-in” mechanism that will digitally inform conductors about passengers’ valid tickets for specific seats, eliminating the need for manual ticket checks and allowing passengers to rest undisturbed.
When is this new system expected to be introduced?
PKP Intercity aims to introduce the self check-in system by 2026.
How will passengers use the automatic check-in?
The check-in process will be managed through a dedicated application on passengers’ smartphones, similar to how airline check-in works.
Which trains will get the automatic check-in system first?
Initial tests are planned for EIP trains, commonly known as Pendolino. The rollout for standard PKP Intercity trains by 2026 is currently unknown.
What other new features are PKP Intercity planning?
Other planned features include the ability to select seats online for connecting journeys, mobile app-based journey tracking, and network access (Wi-Fi) in all train cars for improved connectivity.
Source: Rynek Kolejowy. Opening photo: Generated by Gemini.
About Post Author
