Public transportation

Public transport, public transportation, public transit or mass transit is passenger transport systems that transports members of the general public based on published schedules or at fixed intervals, usually charging set fares, in continuously shared vehicles. This includes rail and bus services as well as airline services and ferries.

Public transport is provided by a company or transit authority that operate a fleet of vehicles. They may or may not be regulated or subsidized by authorities. The infrastructure used may be exclusive, or shared with private vehicles. Higher public transport riderships is generally seen in urban areas, and less in North America and Australia. The environmental impact of public transport is lower than private due to less use of land area and energy, at the same time reducing urban sprawl. The safety record of public transport is excellent compared to other modes.

In contrasts, private transport is passenger transport provided ad hoc — whether for hire or operated by the traveler. Shared transport allows multiple users to use private transport.