Hanoi Metro’s Fresh Ticketing System Drives Ridership and Modernization

Hanoi’s Metro system is experiencing a surge in ridership and operational efficiency following the implementation of a new automated ticketing system utilizing biometric identification and cashless payment options. The advancements signal a significant step towards Hanoi becoming a modern, sustainable city and integrating its public transportation network with national standards.

Increased Ridership and Revenue

As of March 21, 2026, more than 5.7 million passengers have utilized the new gate system on the Nhon-Hanoi Station and Cat Linh-Ha Dong metro lines [1]. This has translated into a 15% increase in passenger numbers and a 48% rise in revenue compared to the same period last year.

Modernized Ticketing Options

Passengers now benefit from a variety of modern and convenient cashless payment methods, including smart citizen ID cards, Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, QR codes, the Hanoi Metro app, and Tap & Go systems [4]. Biometric authentication enhances data security and reduces the risk of fraud.

Integration with VNeID and Future Expansion

Passengers can now register for services using their VNeID accounts, eliminating the need for separate account creation. Future plans include the ability to book combined journeys on a single platform at optimal rates and automatic fare reductions for eligible passengers [3].

A Shift in Mindset and Behavior

The implementation of the new system is viewed as more than just a technical solution; it represents a fundamental shift in mindset and behavior within Hanoi’s digital society. The system benefits citizens through faster travel without needing physical documents or cash, improves transparency and reduces losses for companies, and provides the city with valuable data for transportation infrastructure planning [2].

Towards a Unified Ticketing System

Hanoi Metro plans to expand the infrastructure and standardize technology on new lines to establish a unified electronic ticketing system for all city railway lines. The goal is to modernize software, integrate payments, and deploy a complete transportation solution throughout the city. In the second quarter of 2026, a pilot program will test interconnection between the urban rail network and the national rail network at Hanoi Station [2].

Connecting Multiple Transportation Modes

Future development will focus on connecting the metro system with BRT buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Grab and be Group, creating a seamless and integrated transportation network across the city [2]. Authorities are also exploring extending the system to include aviation, interprovincial transportation, and parking lots.

Hanoi Metro Overview

The Hanoi Metro is a rapid transit system owned by Hanoi’s People Committee and operated by Hanoi Metro Company (HMC) and Tokyo Metro [1]. It is the first operational rapid transit system in Vietnam, with two lines currently in operation and two under construction. As of 2025, the annual ridership reached 20.65 million [1]. The system currently spans 21.6 km with plans to expand to 617 km by 2045 [1].