How does the Skytrain work?


How does the Skytrain work? It uses mostly Advanced Light Rapid Transit (ALRT) technology, an automated rail system that operates mainly on a raised guideway, although some sections run underground or at street level.


Is the SkyTrain fully automated?

Launched in December 1985, SkyTrain is the oldest and one of the longest fully-automated, driverless, rapid transit systems in the world.


Is TransLink cash only?

Taking transit and don't have a Compass Card? No need to print a ticket. Save time, skip lines, and go straight to the gate! Our card readers accept contactless Interac Debit, American Express, Mastercard, and Visa credit cards along with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.


How does SkyTrain get power?

Propulsion uses two Linear Induction Motors—straight line versions of the conventional AC rotary electric motor. The motors react with an aluminium-capped steel rail on the guideway to provide motive power. SkyTrain was the first major application of LIM technology to mass transit systems.


Does the SkyTrain use magnets?

There are permanent magnets in both the rail and the arm that surrounds the train, causing the arm and the train to repel each other and suspend the train.


Why does the SkyTrain stop at night?

The SkyTrains are automated and driverless. In theory, they are the perfect fit for a 24/7 service transit system. But, some parts of its infrastructure are 40 years old and require daily maintenance, most of which is done at night.


How is SkyTrain controlled?

All train movements are controlled from the Operations and Maintenance Centre at Burnaby. The unmanned trains operate under an automatic, computerized train-control SELTRAC system supplied by SEL. This system was originally developed in Germany for both rapid-transit and trunk railway systems.


What are the pros of SkyTrain?

Extending the Millennium Line SkyTrain to UBC will contribute to a growing transit network that meets the needs of the entire region, reducing congestion, moving people more quickly and safely between their homes and places of work, and minimizing our impact on the environment.


How does SkyTrain Vancouver work?

SkyTrain provides high-frequency service, with trains arriving every 2 to 6 minutes at all stations during peak hours. Trains operate between 4:48 a.m. and approximately 1:30 a.m. on weekdays, with reduced hours on weekends on the Expo and Millennium lines.


How do you pay for the SkyTrain in Vancouver?

Using a Compass Card, Compass Ticket, contactless payment cards, or mobile wallet. When you travel on SkyTrain, SeaBus, or West Coast Express, tap your card, ticket, or mobile wallet to the card reader at the fare gates (or validator for West Coast Express) as you enter and exit a station to validate your fare.


Which SkyTrain goes to Vancouver Airport?

Expo Line connects Downtown Vancouver with the cities of Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey. Millennium Line takes you from East Vancouver through to Burnaby and into Port Moody and Coquitlam. Canada Line travels between Downtown Vancouver, the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and Richmond.


Why is it called SkyTrain?

The name SkyTrain was coined for the system during Expo 86 because the first line (Expo) principally runs on elevated guideway outside of Downtown Vancouver, providing panoramic views of the metropolitan area.


Can you tap debit card on SkyTrain?

Commuters in Metro Vancouver can now use their contactless debit cards to pay for a bus or SkyTrain trip, TransLink says. The transit authority said in a statement that any debit cards with Interac capability can now be used to tap in and out at SkyTrain fare gates or buses.


Do you tap when getting off GO Train?

At the end of your trip, remember to tap off. Your default trip will still be set to your card the next time you take the GO Train.