London Gatwick Airport has announced the introduction of a trial of new overnight train services and expanded bus connections, aiding passengers travelling towards early morning departures this summer.
New overnight rail services from both London Victoria and Reading will aim to provide passengers with greater flexibility, as well as more sustainable travel options, during the busiest travel period of the year.
The new services are also hoped to provide a boost for airport workers and local residents relying on public transport outside traditional hours.
Operated by GTR and Great Western Railway (GWR); the additional trains will seek to offer a more convenient, affordable and environmentally friendly way to travel to and from the airport overnight.
Overnight trains will be scheduled as follows:
- GTR: Overnight services are being introduced between London and Gatwick on Saturdays and Mondays from 18 July until 7 September, with the additional Gatwick Express trains departing London Victoria at 03:40 and departing Gatwick Airport at 04:35 to accommodate early flights and late arrivals
- Great Western Railway (GWR) : Overnight services between Gatwick and Reading in the early hours of Saturdays and Mondays, running from 6 June until 12 September, improving connections across the Thames Valley
These trials are being delivered in collaboration with London Gatwick in order to test demand during the busy summer season, as well as support longer term provision.
In addition to new rail connections; London Gatwick part-funds a series of Metrobus routes, providing connections between the airport and surrounding communities.
New routes set to be introduced include the 500 service to Eastbourne, which will provide new links to communities across East Sussex for both passengers and airport staff, bringing the tally of 27/7 routes to eight.
Additionally, 14 different long-distance coach services are capable of providing transport to and from London Gatwick around the clock.
Hannah Godfrey, Senior Surface Access Manager, London Gatwick said:With many flights departing early in the morning during the summer peak, having reliable public transport throughout the night is crucial.
By working closely with our transport partners and investing through our Sustainable Travel Fund, we’re helping passengers and staff get to the airport easily, affordably and in a way that’s better for the environment.
These services are particularly important for thousands of shift workers and local employees who rely on public transport outside standard hours.
