Heathrow Express launches smartphone apps for faster bookings

A new app from rail company Heathrow Express, which operates the express train between central London and Heathrow Airport, allows users to book their journey and pay for their tickets directly from their Blackberry, Android or Java-enabled smartphones. 

The app also provides live service updates so that passengers are kept up to date on the status of the train, but we think the best thing is the electronic ticket you are provided direct to your phone, so that you don’t have to queue up at the station to pick up your tickets. 

The app will also be able to store your personal account details so that buying tickets is even quicker and more convenient - just enter your 3-digit security code, download your ticket at least 15 minutes before departure and you’re on your way. 

Ticket prices for the service are the same as that offered online, which means an Express Class Single ticket is £16.50 and an Express Class Return ticket is £32. Bookings from the app must be made at least 15 minutes before departure, but the validity period extends to 6 months from purchase date with the return journey valid 1 month from your outward travel date.

For now, the app is only available for Blackberry and Android users, as well as those with Java-enabled phones. An iPhone app is expected to appear early next year.

A full list of compatible phones can be found here. Currently, Blackberry users must visit this link to download the app, but it will soon be making its debut in Blackberry World. Android users can already download the app from the Android Market.