Tube set for full mobile coverage by end of 2024
Commuters will be able to access phone and internet coverage on every part of the London Underground network by the end of 2024, Sadiq Khan has announced.
Transport for London (TfL) has today signed a new deal with mobile provider BAI Communications to provide 4G and 5G service across the transit system.
The first stations, which include Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, Euston, Bank and Camden Town, will have internet access from the end of next year.
Passengers have been able to use 4G on the eastern half of the Jubilee line since last year, but under the 20-year deal BAI will extend coverage across the whole network.
The announcement fulfils one of Khan’s reelection pledges. He said: “I promised Londoners that if they re-elected me for a second term as Mayor I would deliver 4G throughout the Tube network.
“It’s already up and running on the eastern half of the Jubilee line and I’m delighted to announced today that I am fulfilling that commitment and full internet access will be available across the Tube, with key central London stations such as Oxford Circus and Euston set to benefit before the end of next year.”
Billy D’Arcy, chief executive of BAI Communications, said that the firm would invest £1bn in the programme over the contract’s life.
“Our long-term partnership with TfL will completely transform the passenger experience, as well as helping to boost London’s economy and providing social benefits for years to come”, he added.
The deal comes just a day after Vodafone customers were left fuming when they found themselves shut out from accessing Wifi on the Tube.
The telecoms giant revealed that it had left a multi-company deal with Virgin Media that provided free Wifi at certain stations.