Tap-in, tap-out train travel expanded to London airports

Contactless ticketing has been expanded to Stansted and Southend Airports.

From 14th December, travellers will be able to tap-in and tap-out at all London airports for the first time.

Tap-in tap-out ticketing allows passengers to use a bank card or contactless enabled device to enter any train station, instead of manually buying individual or return tickets.

The introduction has been made possible by £18.7 million in government funding, along with support from Transport for London. 50 stations will get the upgrade at the same time.

The scheme will help passengers to get the cheapest fares on the days they travel.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "Rail ticketing is far too complicated and long overdue an upgrade to bring it into the 21st century. Through the expansion of tap-in tap-out technology and shortly through GBR, we’re doing just that and making buying tickets more convenient, more accessible and more flexible – and ensuring passengers can get the best fares. 

"As part of our Plan for Change, we’re delivering straightforward, stress-free train travel across the south-east, supporting passengers and boosting economic growth, jobs and homes."

Alex Williams, Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at Transport for London (TfL), said: "For more than 10 years, the popularity of convenient travel via pay-as-you-go with contactless has grown and become increasingly popular across London and the surrounding areas. We are delighted to be extending pay-as-you-go with contactless to a further 50 stations from 14 December, including Stansted Airport, making it easier for those arriving at the airport to travel to London and experience all the city has to offer. 

"Expanding pay-as-you-go with contactless will further help those travelling by rail outside London do so more flexibly and conveniently, avoid the need to pre-purchase tickets or paper Travelcards when heading into the capital, and support the wider UK economic recovery through easier access to rail travel."