Transport for London (TfL) has announced a new operator for the Elizabeth line.

GTS Rail Operations Limited, a joint venture between Go Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro, and Sumitomo Corporation, will take over from MTR Corporation (Crossrail) Limited in May 2025.

The contract is set for seven years, with an option to extend for up to two additional years.

The Elizabeth line, which opened in 2022, is a crucial part of London's transport network, carrying more than 700,000 passengers daily.

The new contract aims to ensure it remains a model for public transport investment.

TfL's chief operating officer, Claire Mann, said: "The Elizabeth line has had a transformational impact since opening in 2022 and has quickly become one of the most popular and reliable railways in the country.

"The railway has provided new, more direct journey options which has led to huge numbers of customers using our safe and accessible trains and stations.

"I am delighted that we have appointed GTS Rail Operations to continue to build on the success of the Elizabeth line and I look forward to working with them."

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The new concession operator contract will focus on several key areas to maintain and enhance the line's performance.

These include bringing the best practices from Tokyo and London to optimise operations, ensuring customer and staff safety, and fostering collaboration with industry partners to achieve high levels of performance and customer satisfaction.

There will also be investment in people and technology to improve operating performance and manage disruptions and customer information.

The contract will also see the introduction of 10 new Class 345 trains in response to increasing passenger numbers.

GTS Rail Operations will work closely with TfL, Network Rail, and HS2 to prepare for the operation of services to the new station at Old Oak Common, planned to open in 2030.

The contract also includes a commitment to deliver more than 500 apprenticeships over its term, supporting strategic resourcing and training.

Grants will be offered to local community groups to support grassroots movements.

Miguel Parras, group chief executive 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."