Lift-Pass Tech — How RFID Passes and Gates Work for First-Timers

Modern lift passes are little plastic cards with a chip inside, and the gates read them automatically as you walk through. It feels like magic the first time, but a couple of small details trip up beginners. Here is how it all works.

How RFID Passes Work

Your pass contains an RFID chip, a tiny tag that the gate reads wirelessly from a short distance. You do not tap or scan anything by hand. You simply walk toward the gate with the pass on you, and a sensor detects it, flashes green, and opens the barrier.

Getting Through the Gate Smoothly

1. Put the pass in your left jacket pocket. The readers are usually on the left side of the gate, so this is the sweet spot.
2. Keep one pass per pocket. Two chip cards together can confuse the reader.
3. Approach steadily. Walk up, wait for the green light, then push through the turnstile.
4. Watch for the light. Green means go. Red usually means the pass was not read or has an issue.

If the Gate Will Not Open

• Move the pass closer to the reader panel, around hip height on your left.
• Remove phones or other cards from the same pocket, as they can interfere.
• Check the dates. Make sure your pass covers today.
• Ask staff. There is usually an attendant nearby who can help instantly.

Keep It Safe

Most resorts charge a small refundable deposit for the card, so hang on to it. Do not bend it, and keep it away from your phone overnight, as strong magnets can occasionally affect chips.

Once you are through the gate, Bonvo takes over. Open the app at the top of the lift to see the beginner runs below you in 3D and choose your descent with confidence.