Passenger information technology lets a transit agency communicate with its passengers to provide them with real-time bus location and status updates, schedule data and timely announcements.

A Passenger Information System (PIS) is an automated digital network designed to provide real-time, accurate travel data to passengers across various platforms. The system works by aggregating data from multiple sources: the Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system (usually via GPS) tracks the exact position of the train, bus, or plane, while the Centralized Control Center provides data on delays or service changes. This information is processed by a central server and then pushed out to "endpoints," which include LED or LCD displays at stations, onboard audio announcements, and mobile apps. In 2026, these systems are increasingly "predictive," using AI to estimate arrival times based on current traffic density and historical patterns rather than just raw distance. Onboard a train or plane, the PIS is often integrated with the In-Flight/In-Train Entertainment system, allowing passengers to see their progress on a moving map. The system also utilizes "GTFS-Realtime" (General Transit Feed Specification) data, which allows third-party apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to display the same live updates, ensuring a seamless information flow from the station platform to the passenger's pocket.