SEPTA allows riders to use credit, debit cards to buy fares

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is now allowing riders to use credit or debit cards to buy tickets for the Market-Frankford and Broad Street subway lines.

Passengers can buy the new "Quick Trip" tickets at 18 stations along those lines. The disposable tickets feature a magnetic strip and are swiped at SEPTA's new "Key" turnstiles, agency officials said in a press release.

The Quick Trip tickets are valid for one-way travel from the station where purchased.

The initiative marks the first time that riders can pay for subway rides without needing a token or exact cash, Philly.com reported.

SEPTA began piloting the Key fare payment program in June, when the agency launched its "early adopter" phase for 10,000 riders. The introduction of "Quick Trip" tickets is an expansion of the Key program.

As part of the initiative, all riders eventually will be able to use SEPTA Key branded cards or other contactless payment devices to purchase fares throughout the system.