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Gatwick Express is doubling its services this Christmas, returning to full frequency for the first time since the pandemic.
From 13 December, Gatwick Express will operate four trains per hour between London Victoria and Gatwick airport.
It’s the first time trains will run at full pre-pandemic frequency since 2019, with direct 30-minute transfers every 15 minutes.
The timetable change comes as new research commissioned by Gatwick Express revealed that over half of the nation (51 per cent) are considering a holiday abroad in December and January.
Louis Rambaud, chief customer officer at GTR, which operates Gatwick Express, said: “Whether it’s Christmas in the sun, or skiing in the Alps, we want to make getting away this winter as easy as possible. By doubling our Gatwick Express services, we’re giving customers more choice and flexibility when travelling to and from the airport.
“Returning to four trains per hour for the first time since the pandemic is a major milestone and follows other launches this year, including Fast Track Security and airport lounge access, all designed to improve the customer experience and make Gatwick Express the ideal choice when travelling to Gatwick airport.”
In other rail news, a major London rail station is set to close for seven months to replace its escalators.
City Thameslink station will shut from 17 May until late December 2027 while all 10 escalators are replaced.
According to Network Rail, the existing escalators, which have been used for over 35 years, are reaching the end of their operational life.
The rail operator added that several escalators were severely damaged in spring 2025 by severe flooding and “can no longer provide the long-term reliability passengers expect”.
Work will not impact the track, with Thameslink services continuing to operate as normal.
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