The Luton Direct Air-Rail Transit (DART) system has marked its second anniversary, having recorded over six million passenger journeys since opening in March 2023.
The automated passenger transit service provides a connection between Luton Airport Parkway station and London Luton Airport in under four minutes. It was introduced to enhance rail-air connectivity and replace the previous shuttle bus service.
Since the introduction of the DART, the proportion of passengers using rail and the transit system to reach the airport has increased. The modal share for rail and DART journeys rose from 14.1% in the final year of the bus service (1 April 2022 – 31 March 2023) to 19% in the period between 1 April 2024 and 28 February 2025. The DART has also demonstrated reliability, with service performance exceeding 99%.
Paul Kehoe CBE, Independent Chair of Luton Rising said:The Luton DART has been a fantastic addition to the service for rail passengers getting to and from our airport.
Not only is it fast, reliable and seamless, but it tackles congestion and emissions by enticing people away from their cars, and is future-proofed to be able to serve a bigger airport.
Luton DART Extension
Since its launch, Luton DART shuttles have collectively travelled 144,000 km—the equivalent of circumnavigating the globe more than three times.
Looking ahead, Luton Rising has outlined proposals to extend the DART system and expand its capacity to serve a second terminal as part of plans for the sustainable development of London Luton Airport. A decision from the Transport Secretary on the expansion is expected by 3 April.
Alberto Martin, Chief Executive of London Luton Airport, said:Enhancing connectivity and promoting sustainable travel options are central to London Luton Airport’s plans for responsible growth.
Alongside the Luton Airport Express service, the Luton DART has been a transformational development for LLA, bringing the airport even closer to central London, with a faster, more frequent service for millions of passengers who are now choosing rail as a sustainable travel option when travelling to and from the airport.
