New MARTA Better Breeze gates fully operable at airport ahead of schedule, travelers react

ATLANTA — MARTA’s new Better Breeze system is now fully operable at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, giving a glimpse into how the new system will function ahead of schedule.

Better Breeze is set to be fully implemented by May 2. Since it began getting fully installed at stations, fare gates have been open (for free rides, in other words) to allow people to transition away from old cards.

The fare gates are now, however, in operation days ahead of schedule at the airport.

Travelers who spoke to 11Alive’s Grace King gave generally positive reviews.

“I’m very excited about tap to pay, because I think that’s the way of the future, and I think it’s a lot better, especially because it’s a good thing that we only have a $2.50 fare, one way,” said Tessa Rogers. She added it’s her hope, though, the heavy-rail system will expand.

Another traveler, in from Boston, also gave the system a warm assessment.

“I travel quite a bit, but I feel like with the tap to pay, it makes things a lot easier, because before we were waiting in line and, you know, trying to get the tickets in these machines, which never worked, and so it’s kind of nice to just breeze through,” said Daniel Alder.

One MARTA rider said she did miss the “free ride” loophole that had been ongoing.

The transit agency said in a statement said it had closed the gates at Airport Station “because installations are complete and have deployed team members on-site to assist riders with the transition.”

“Beginning May 2, all new fare gates will be closed and fare collection enforced systemwide,” a MARTA statement added. “Old Breeze cards will not work with the new system. Customers should prepare in advance to use the available payment options: new, orange Breeze card, credit or debit card, or mobile wallet.”