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Experts in planning, project managing, and implementing some of the world’s most successful and profitable air-rail links.

We conduct extensive research and apply bespoke methodologies to ensure that each air-rail link will meet the needs of the market. This stringent planning also ensures the link will operate at an excellent level of reliability at all times, to deliver industry-leading customer service.

Air-Rail Links Case Study

Enhancing Air-Rail Connectivity at London Luton Airport

 

Since 2014, North Star has worked in close partnership with London Luton Airport (LLA), supporting their mission to improve airport accessibility and enhance passenger experience through improved rail connectivity.

Our key achievements have included:

  • Express Services from London Every 30 Minutes: Fast services from London St
    Pancras, providing efficient travel options for passengers.
  • 24/7 Night Train Service: Around-the-clock train services connecting the airport to London and surrounding cities every 30 minutes, ensuring passengers have reliable
    options no matter the time of day.
  • Six Trains Per Hour via the Thameslink Core: Delivering seamless connections
    between LLA and Central London with frequent services.
  Our role involved:

1. Strategic Partnership Development: We facilitated a partnership between the airport and train operators, securing a 24/7 service that aligns with the airport’s growth. This
included introducing fast services from London St Pancras to the airport’s nearby station.

2. Shuttle Train Implementation: We supported the development and implementation of a dedicated shuttle train between LLA and Luton Parkway Station, leading to a direct air-rail link that further enhanced airport accessibility.

3. Station Upgrades: Major improvements at key stations included the addition of a new overbridge, lifts, escalators and north side station buildings, significantly improving accessibility and customer experience.

 

4. Marketing Strategy and Advice: We provided strategic advice on marketing, focusing on value-added messaging and optimal advertising channels, ensuring effective promotion of rail services to and from the airport.

5. Implementation of Contactless Ticketing: We supported the rollout of contactless ticketing, including credit card and Apple Pay integration, making it easier for rail passengers to travel to and from LLA.

6. Collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT): Working closely with the DfT, we
helped specify operator requirements, ensuring alignment between franchise contracts and customer-focused service goals. This collaboration led to the specification of an express service, running every 30 minutes, directly serving the airport.

7. Feasibility Study and Business Case Development: North Star led a comprehensive feasibility study to assess infrastructure capacity for additional services. A supporting business case, closely aligned with the DfT’s strategy, was developed to ensure successful delivery of these services.

Through our strategic guidance and technical expertise, LLA has significantly enhanced its rail offering, positioning itself as one of the most accessible airports in the UK by public transport. These developments are a testament to North Star’s commitment to improving air-rail connectivity, ensuring convenient, efficient travel options for airport passengers.

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