Russia Plans to Expand MAX Messenger with Unified Ticket Purchases Across All Transport Types
The Russian Ministry of Transport is developing new features for the MAX messenger to allow users to plan routes and purchase tickets for urban transport, trains, airplanes, and sea or river vessels within a single application. First Deputy Minister Konstantin Pashkov stated that the platform already supports verification of eligibility for discounted travel and handling of travel documents. Future plans include greater reliance on biometric identification, enabling passengers to complete bookings digitally and board using camera recognition without showing QR codes or physical documents. The initiative forms part of a gradual transition, with no immediate plans to phase out existing payment methods. New regulations effective from September 1 permit confirmation of social benefits through MAX and the use of biometric services where carriers have the required equipment. No specific timeline for full implementation of integrated ticketing has been provided.
AntiMalwareSep 16, 2026Translated from Russian