Phuket’s Tap & Go Bus System Launches for Seamless Travel in 2026
Phuket has launched a new Tap & Go payment system for its public buses, making travel easier for tourists and locals. The service went live on January 15, 2026, allowing passengers to pay fares with contactless credit or debit cards. The move is part of Phuket’s push to modernise transport and strengthen its position as a smart tourism destination.
The Tap & Go system was introduced on two key routes: the airport to Rawai line and the Dragon Line within Phuket Old Town. The airport route connects Phuket International Airport with popular west coast areas, including hotels, beaches, and residential neighbourhoods. Meanwhile, the Dragon Line serves cultural spots, historic streets, and creative districts in Phuket Old Town.
The new system eliminates the need for cash, tickets, or top-ups. This change helps transit operators cut fare collection costs and improve efficiency. Passengers simply tap their contactless cards to board, speeding up the process. The launch event was officiated by Nirat Phongsitthaworn, Governor of Phuket Province. The service is run by Phuket City Development (PKCD), with Mastercard supplying the payment technology and Krungthai Bank processing transactions. Dheeraj Raina of Mastercard noted that the partnership supports Phuket’s goal of becoming a smart tourism city linked to the global digital economy. With this update, Phuket joins over 390 cities worldwide already using contactless payments for public transport. The island, known as Thailand’s top culinary destination in 2024, continues to attract food-loving travellers from around the globe.
The Tap & Go system aims to boost convenience for both residents and visitors while reducing reliance on cash. By streamlining payments, Phuket strengthens its reputation as a forward-thinking travel hub. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to integrate the island into the global digital economy.
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