CALLS to slash Heathrow train fares and help ease overcrowding on the Piccadilly line have been backed by Hounslow Council.
Deputy council leader Colin Ellar today demanded cheaper tickets on the Heathrow Express service between Paddington and the airport.
He called on London Mayor Boris Johnson to integrate the service into Transport for London's fare structure, which would see costs dramatically reduced.
Mr Ellar's calls follow similar demands by Ealing Passenger Transport Users' Group - backed by London Assembly member Onkar Sahota - for cheaper tickets on Heathrow Connect, the stopping service between central London and the airport.
The cheapest adult single fare on the Heathrow Express from Paddington to the airport is currently £20, nearly seven times the cost of an off-peak Oyster tube fare between the two stations. Oyster and travel cards are not valid on the train service.
"Having an expensive, premium service when other ways of getting to Heathrow, like the Piccadilly line, are creaking under the strain is a luxury we can no longer afford," said Mr Ellar.
"I urge Boris to throw his weight behind this and convince Heathrow's bosses to integrate the service into London's transport system.
"It would mean fair fares for all and would help make a better not a bigger airport for Londoners and international travellers too."
Mr Ellar claimed the move would also help reduce pollution around Heathrow, which already exceeds EU limits, by cutting the number of car journeys to the airport.
He also called for better bus services in the area, including more 24-hour routes, and improvements to the Piccadilly line.
Transport for London said the cost of Heathrow Express tickets was a matter for the airport, which operates the service.
However, it has said more government funding is needed for 'vital infrastructure work' to improve the Piccadilly line service.
An airport spokeswoman said the Heathrow Express was a premium non-stop service, reaching central London in just 15 minutes.
She added that residents could use Heathrow Connect, the Piccadilly line or free bus services paid for by Heathrow.
