Eurostar Starts Test on Contactless “Fast Track” Service

At London’s St Pancras International rail station, Eurostar has begun testing a contactless “fast track” service for passengers.

SmartCheck, a service provided by the railway operator in collaboration with the software firm iProov, enables customers to complete secure ticket verification and UK passport exit checks on their mobile devices before traveling. On Monday, the SmartCheck service was debuted at St Pancras station (6 December).

Business Premier and Carte Blanche ticket holders will be able to scan identity documents with their iPhones before arriving at the station, as well as complete a biometric facial scan to ensure they are the rightful owner of the document.

Passengers will utilize a dedicated SmartCheck lane at the station, where they will be scanned at the ticket gate to ensure that they have completed the ticket check. No paper or electronic tickets will be shared.

Without the need to give over any documents, a second face scan at the UK exit check will allow Eurostar to verify that the traveler has completed their passport information.

Eurostar’s strategy director and company secretary, Gareth Williams, said: “We are committed to working closely with governments to introduce new tools and technology that streamline the check in and border process.

“Face biometric technology, which we start trialling today, is a fast and contactless solution which will enable secure passenger checks to take place more efficiently and provide a seamless start to the Eurostar customer journey.”