New train service launched for huge UK airport - from July 18

Holidaymakers heading to one of the UK's busiest hubs this summer are set for a major travel upgrade, thanks to a brand-new train schedule designed for early flyers and late-night returners. Gatwick Express has launched a timetable enhancement featuring early morning and overnight train services.The new trial services run directly between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, catering specifically to passengers catching early Saturday-morning flights or returning late Sunday nights. The new schedule sees services departing London Victoria as early as 3.40am on Saturdays and leaving Gatwick Airport at 4.35am on Sundays. The move comes as train bosses tap into the rising trend of "bed to boarding" travel - a movement spearheaded by younger travellers who prioritise rolling straight out of bed and heading for their flight over spending hours waiting at the terminal.According to new research commissioned by Gatwick Express, a third (33%) of Brits aged 18 to 29 admitted to having travelled to the airport in their pyjamas, with 53% believing it is completely acceptable wear for an early flight. That contrasts sharply with older generations - only 13% of Gen X and just 4% of Boomers share the same view. Travellers ditching traditional outfits for sleepwear said the approach saves time getting ready (38%), keeps them comfortable (37%) and helps them feel more relaxed before taking off (40%).The extra services arrive alongside a suite of new customer perks aimed at cutting out pre-flight anxiety. To achieve this, Gatwick Express has introduced Fast Track Security access for First Class ticket holders, allowing them to bypass main security queues. Standard Class passengers can also benefit from a 20% discount on Fast Track security by using a unique booking code. Additionally, travellers can now enjoy discounted lounge access across more than 1,600 global airport lounges thanks to a new partnership with LoungeKey Pass.The upgrades target the biggest headaches for UK holidaymakers. Research has shown that 40% of Brits (21.3 million people) cite long security queues as their single biggest source of pre-flight stress. Meanwhile, more than 13.2 million UK adults admit that traffic on the way to the airport causes significant anxiety before take-off."We know that annual leave is precious and when the time comes to get away, every minute counts. Our new services will help people maximise their holidays by connecting them to early morning and late-night flights over the weekend," said Louis Rambaud, chief customer officer at GTR."With direct, 30-minute services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, access to Gatwick's premium airport lounge and Fast-Track security, Gatwick Express is the best way to travel for a stress-free start to your holiday - whether you're in pyjamas or not!"Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy welcomed the news, highlighting that the additional overnight connections form part of broader passenger improvements being delivered as the rail network prepares for the transition into Great British Railways."These additional overnight Gatwick Express services will make a real difference to people arriving late or travelling for early flights - connecting them straight to the capital," he noted.Hannah Godfrey, senior surface access manager at London Gatwick, added: "For many people, their holiday begins the moment they leave home, so it's great to see Gatwick Express helping passengers get into the holiday spirit before they even reach the airport."