Cardiff launches smart cards

The "IFF card" will allow travellers to go up to £3 into debit, the equivalent of two single bus journeys in the city. Cardiff said it is similar to travel smart cards used in other UK cities, including London. It can be loaded with credit, with the possibility of avoiding paying for each journey separately. It can also be used as a season ticket. Ieuan Wyn Jones, the deputy first minister and minister for the economy and transport, was among officials who unveiled the card outside Cardiff Library on 6 October 2010. "This is also an important milestone achievement for the Wales transport entitlement card project," the minister said. "The transition to ITSO enables the Welsh Assembly Government and all 22 local authorities to offer a more flexible transport system for our citizens, reducing costs, improving efficiency and offering travellers throughout Wales an improved travel experience." Cardiff Bus is also planning to extend its communication with travellers by sending service updates to passengers via text or email during spells of traffic congestion or bad weather. Councillor Joe Carter, chair of Cardiff Bus, said: "Our aim is for 'IFF' to become as much a part of the local language in Cardiff as the 'Oyster' card is in London."