The pilot exercise will start on 19 October 2008, which is the start of the CalMac winter timetable. This will allow CalMac time to prepare new ticketing systems and avoid the need for refunds. CalMac’s busiest time for bookings for the summer timetable is normally between January and March. An earlier start would potentially involve a large number of refunds due to customers who had booked at pre-RET rates. CalMac also needs to have time to prepare various logistical issues such as revised ticketing systems, information and promotional material.