Heathrow Express launches iPhone ticket app

The company says it is the first of its kind

A free iPhone app enabling people to receive train tickets directly to their phone has launched in the UK.

Heathrow Express, which enables direct travel between central London and Heathrow Airport, has launched an app allowing passengers to purchase tickets then receive a barcode on their phone that can be scanned once they have boaded.

The app has been accredited by Barclays and is compliant with the international standard for data security, PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). It accepts all major credit and debit cards, except Maestro.

It is the first such app to be launched in the UK, according to the company.

Together with mobile boarding passes which are now available on some routes, smartphones are helping travel companies reduce supply of paper tickets.

Richard Robinson, Heathrow Express managing director, said: "Developing an app that allows iPhone users to book and receive Heathrow Express tickets directly extends our mobile ticketing strategy."

The free app features live service updates as well as the facility to purchase tickets.