Train and Sydney Metro passengers can now travel free for longer, with two fare-free days this week extended into the start of the weekend.

The scheduled fare-free days — in the wake of an industrial dispute which caused chaos across the NSW rail network — were initially scheduled to start at 12.01am on Thursday and end at midnight Friday.

But the NSW government announced on Wednesday it would be extended to cover trips in the early hours of Saturday.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

Passengers can ride free on Sydney Trains and Sydney Metro services, including services to Sydney Airport which normally cost close to $18.

The initiative also includes regional or interstate NSW TrainLink services but passengers will still need to book a ticket to secure a seat, with fares later refunded.

NSW Transport Minister John Graham said the move follows months of disruption which commuters and travellers endured during the long-running industrial dispute between rail unions and the government.

“This is acknowledgement to the travelling public that months of disruption took its toll but it is also an invitation to support those businesses who had some lean days,” he said.

“Whether that means a coffee at a local cafe near the train station or a favourite restaurant or bar in the city, Parramatta or other centres, we know businesses will appreciate a boost in trade.”

Opal gates at train and metro stations will remain open, with readers switched off, from 12.01am on Thursday until 6am on Saturday.

If anyone accidentally taps on or off and gets charged a default fare, it will automatically be corrected to zero over the next week.

“Fare-free days include regional routes to places like Melbourne and Brisbane,” Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison said.

“You will need to book in advance, but this is a fantastic opportunity to get out and explore this state and beyond.”

Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou said the initiative is a win not just for commuters but for local economies.

“It’s a much-needed boost for food, hospitality and retail businesses that have faced enormous pressure over recent months,” he said.

“This thoughtful initiative is expected to benefit more than a million passengers, but its impact will ripple far beyond the trains and buses — it will support jobs, stimulate spending, and re-energise the heart of our economy.”

More than 2.2 million people are expected to benefit from fare-free trips across NSW.

Buses, ferries and light rail are not included and will continue to charge fares as usual.