18.04.16
Luton Airport 24-hour light rail link to open in 2020
London Luton Airport (LLA) has announced plans to build a 24-hour light rail link between the airport and Luton Airport Parkway station.
The 1.2 mile long rail link mass passenger transit, similar to those already used at Birmingham and Gatwick, will be funded by Luton Borough Council and open in 2020, replacing the current bus service.
A recent Transport Select Committee report said that better rail surface links to airports are urgently needed.
Nick Barton, CEO of LLA, said: “Improving rail links is a crucial part of LLA’s development, and integral to ensure that we provide the best service possible for all our passengers.
“The creation of a light rail link between Parkway station and the terminal is a significant milestone in the airport’s transformation and the first step towards creating a world-class air-rail service.”
Currently, 16% of LLA passengers, or 2 million every year, currently visit the station by rail, a figure LLA wants to increase to 30%.
LLA also aims to introduce four fast trains each hour to cover the distance from the airport to central London in 20 minutes, as part of the new East Midlands rail franchise. It is also working with Transport for London to add the airport to the Oyster card network.
(Image c. Luton Airport)