Gatwick Express

It may still seem some way off but the first of the new Gatwick Express carriages is on test.  The full trains are due to enter service in 2016, replacing the 1980s-built 442 units which have been operating since 2008, and are part of a massive investment in new trains by Govia Thameslink Railway.

Called the Class 387/2, this first carriage is undergoing static testing by Bombardier Transportation at its manufacturing plant in Derby.
 
The 27 four-car trains have been specially designed for the airport route with easier boarding, better luggage space, two-by-two seating, power points at every seat, air-conditioning, wi-fi, the latest automated on-board service information and excellent facilities for people with disabilities.
 
Angie Doll, the new Passenger Service Director for Gatwick Express, said: “This is a key milestone in the journey to brand new trains for Gatwick Express.  The benefits our passengers will receive will also be felt by those travelling from Brighton, as in the off-peak some of these trains will be extended to this station.”  www.gatwickexpress.com

Index/Home page
 

OUR READERS' FINEST WORDS (All times and dates are GMT)

All comments are filtered to exclude any excesses but the Editor does not have to agree with what is being said. 100 words maximum