Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Transition Process to Electronic Ticketing in Public Transport: A Case Study in a Brazilian City

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped public transportation dynamics globally, prompting shifts in passenger behavior and payment methods. Concurrently, the rise of fintech and Industry 4.0 has accelerated the adoption of digital payment solutions, aligning with the trend towards cashless societies. This study investigates the impact of the pandemic on the transition from cash to card payments for public transport fares in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Leveraging data from the city's transparency portal, analyses were conducted on passenger numbers, payment methods, and card usage from November 2019 to November 2021. Findings reveal a steady usage of card payments compared to cash, with a notable increase in individual ticket card transactions post-vaccination. Conversely, employer-provided transportation voucher card usage experienced a decline. These trends suggest a preference among users for card-based payments, potentially driven by concerns over direct cash handling and adherence to social distancing guidelines. In conclusion, the study underscores the shifting landscape of public transportation payments in response to the pandemic, highlighting the role of digital solutions in enhancing safety and convenience for passengers.