Teams from GWR, Bombardier, DB Cargo, DfT, Heathrow Airport and Porterbrook successfully completed ETCS (European Train Control System) testing on Class 387 units on the mainline between Reading and Heathrow at the end of March. Based on 10 return trips, this testing verified the successful functioning of the on-train hardware and software, as well as the related infrastructure.

Its success also reflects positive progress with both ETCS fitment and vehicle refurbishment at Bombardier’s Ilford depot, as well as rigorous testing over recent months of the ETCS software at Network Rail’s Melton Mowbray RIDC test track. The GWR 387s will serve Heathrow Express customers later this year.

Mary Grant, Porterbrook CEO, said: “Notwithstanding these challenging times, we need to continue focusing on delivering key projects so that the railway is ready to support UK plc when the situation stabilises. The introduction of an ETCS-fitted fleet on services to Heathrow will enable a service up-lift to meet expected passenger numbers when the airport returns to its role as a key European aviation hub.”

Matt Byrne, UK president of Bombardier, said: “Although we are now on a production pause, project progress and industry co-operation continue wherever it is safe to do so. This landmark refurbishment and upgrade project, involving teams from both our services and rail control solutions businesses, is an industry first — retrofitting ETCS equipment to existing fleets.”