Transport for London (TfL) has announced that GTS Rail Operations Limited, a joint venture between Go-Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro, and Sumitomo Corporation, will take over as the operator of the Elizabeth line from May 2025 with the contract due to run for seven years alongside an option to extend for a further seven years. This could mean that GTS could potentially run the Elizabeth line until 2034.
The Elizabeth line, which opened in 2022, has quickly become one of the most popular railways in the UK, carrying over 700,000 passengers daily. The new operator has said that it aims to build upon the line's success by focusing on safety, performance, and customer satisfaction.
"The Elizabeth line has had a transformational impact since opening in 2022," said Claire Mann, TfL's Chief Operating Officer. "I am delighted that we have appointed GTS Rail Operations to continue to build on the success of the Elizabeth line."
Miguel Parras, Group CEO of the Go-Ahead Group said: “We’re proud to have been chosen to be TfL’s partner, together with Sumitomo Corporation and Tokyo Metro, for the operation of the iconic Elizabeth line. We look forward to bringing our collective expertise across UK and international rail operations to London.
“Our objectives are aligned with TfL - to connect communities across London through safe, reliable, and sustainable public transport services, delivered to the highest level of customer satisfaction.”
Under the new contract, TfL will continue to set fare prices as well as market the Elizabeth Line services. It will also continue to retain the revenue to reinvest in the capital’s transport network. It is also expected that all the current MTR staff will transfer over to GTS Rail Operations Limited once the contract starts in May.
The new contract will mean that GTS Rail Operations will have a key role in the opening of Old Oak Common, which is expected to open in 2030. The new operator also plans to introduce several initiatives, including investing in technology, training, and offer over 500 apprenticeship schemes.
GTS Rail Operations saw off competition from Arrive Trains, a joint venture from First Group and Keolis as well as MTR.
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