First new Gatwick Express Class 387/2 EMU enters service
Posted: 11 March 2016 | | No comments yet
The first new Gatwick Express Class 387/2 ELECTROSTAR train has entered passenger service following a ceremony attended by the UK Rail Minister.
Bombardier Transportation presented the first new Gatwick Express Class 387/2 EMU at London Victoria station at a ceremony attended by Rail Minister Claire Perry MP. The vehicle then travelled to Gatwick Airport for an additional ceremony before entering into passenger service.
Gatwick Express Class 387/2 EMUs specifically designed for the route
Bombardier is manufacturing a total of 108 ELECTROSTAR vehicles for Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR). The 27 four-car Class 387/2s trains have been specially designed for the airport route. Each new train features two double doors per vehicle with more space around them for easier boarding, 2×2 seating with more leg room and under-seat storage, more luggage space, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and the latest automated on-board service information in several languages.
In November 2014 GTR announced it would be replacing the 1980S-built trains which were currently in service. The new vehicles, Designed and manufactured in Derby, will continue to enter into service during 2016.
“This marks a real step-change in the journey experience for Gatwick Express passengers”
Gatwick Express Passenger Service Director, Angie Doll said: “This marks a real step-change in the journey experience for Gatwick Express passengers. The new fleet replaces 30-year old rolling stock which is not designed for today’s airport passenger, and the introduction of our new trains is just the start of some really exciting improvements yet to come.”