UK: First Capital Connect Launches Queue-Busting Mobile Ticketing App

First Capital Connect announced March 24 the launch of its new queue-busting mobile ticketing app, allowing passengers to use their mobile phone or tablet as a ticket machine.

Developed by Masabi, customers can download the app to their phone and instantly purchase peak and certain off-peak tickets for immediate use. 

Mobile tickets (mTickets) are displayed on the phone’s screen as an encrypted barcode to be scanned by gate line scanners or revenue staff – turning the phone into a personalised ticket machine. 

The tickets can be used at London King’s Cross, Cambridge and King’s Lynn but the technology will very shortly be rolled out so that passengers can travel to and from these three stations at Ely, Royston, Hitchin, Stevenage and Letchworth Garden City. 

Later, First Capital Connect also expects to offer the app for journeys between Gatwick and London.

Tickets purchased for other routes or ticket types on the app can easily be collected from any station ticket machine using the unique reference number sent to customer’s mobile or tablet. 

First Capital Connect Customer Service Director Keith Jipps said, “We are delighted to be launching our mTicket range as part of our commitment to make the ticket purchasing process for passengers as easy as possible.

“We have been quietly trialling this app over the past few months and it has proved so successful we are looking to expand mobile ticketing to other stations on our network.”

The app also provides real-time information on trains and timetables. It saves frequent journeys and securely stores payment information which means that users can make repeat purchases with just a few taps, removing the need to enter log-in details each time. 

Ben Whitaker, CEO of Masabi said, “After studying and living in Cambridge for years, and also starting the company in Cambridge, it is particularly exciting for me to see First Capital Connect launching queue-busting mobile ticketing at London King’s Cross and Cambridge, making it even easier for passengers to jump between these two fantastic hubs of culture, history and education. 

“This service will mean that passengers, for the first time, will be able to buy their tickets as they stroll to the station rather than having to queue for a ticket. We look forward to extending this passenger liberating service to other First Capital Connect routes in the future.”