From July 18, Gatwick Express will introduce new early morning and overnight train services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, aimed at passengers catching early Saturday-morning flights or returning late Sunday nights. The trial schedule includes departures from London Victoria as early as 3:40am on Saturdays and from Gatwick Airport at 4:35am on Sundays.
Rise of 'Bed to Boarding' Travel
The move taps into a growing trend among younger travelers who prefer to go straight from bed to the airport. Research commissioned by Gatwick Express found that 33% of Brits aged 18 to 29 have traveled to the airport in their pyjamas, and 53% consider it acceptable attire for early flights. In contrast, only 13% of Gen X and 4% of Boomers share that view. Among those who ditch traditional outfits, 38% say it saves time, 37% value comfort, and 40% feel more relaxed before take-off.
New Customer Perks to Reduce Stress
The enhanced timetable comes with additional benefits aimed at easing pre-flight anxiety. First Class ticket holders now receive Fast Track Security access, allowing them to bypass main queues. Standard Class passengers can get a 20% discount on Fast Track security using a unique booking code. A new partnership with LoungeKey Pass offers discounted lounge access at over 1,600 global airport lounges.
Research shows that 40% of Brits (21.3 million people) cite long security queues as their biggest source of pre-flight stress, while more than 13.2 million adults worry about traffic en route to the airport.
Industry and Official Reactions
Louis Rambaud, chief customer officer at GTR, said: "We know that annual leave is precious and when the time comes to get away, every minute counts. Our new services will help people maximise their holidays by connecting them to early morning and late-night flights over the weekend." He added: "With direct, 30-minute services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, access to Gatwick’s premium airport lounge and Fast-Track security, Gatwick Express is the best way to travel for a stress-free start to your holiday - whether you’re in pyjamas or not!"
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy welcomed the additional overnight connections, noting they form part of broader passenger improvements as the rail network prepares for the transition into Great British Railways. "These additional overnight Gatwick Express services will make a real difference to people arriving late or travelling for early flights - connecting them straight to the capital," he said.
Hannah Godfrey, senior surface access manager at London Gatwick, commented: "For many people, their holiday begins the moment they leave home, so it’s great to see Gatwick Express helping passengers get into the holiday spirit before they even reach the airport."
