Arriva will continue to operate the Greenline 757 coach service between central London and Luton via Luton Airport for at least a further five years after securing another competitively tendered contract from the air travel gateway.
The operator says that it and its predecessors have connected those two locations since Luton Airport opened in 1938. Route 757 has existed for over 40 years. Arriva runs it with a fleet of Mercedes-Benz Tourismos and a dedicated 27-strong driving team from its Luton depot.
The new contract begins in March. In addition to the five-year core term, it includes a potential extension of a further two years.
Arriva South Commercial Director Chris Burley has welcomed the continuation. In a hint that zero-emission may be on the roadmap, he notes that the operator plans “to actively explore and trial new technologies which can make the service even better, especially for the environment, as our ambition is to make public transport the best option for passengers.”
Adds Mr Burley: “The 757 route is well established and we review it regularly to make sure it is meeting the needs of airport customers. It is good to see that the airport appreciates the consistency and reliability of the service, and it is something we are proud to run.”
London Luton Airport Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Rayner says that the travel hub is “delighted” to continue to work with Arriva on the Greenline 757 service.
“With more services to and from central London and an increased off-peak service to Bricket Wood, all stopping directly in front of the terminal door, getting to and from the airport by public transport is now even easier,” he continues.
“Encouraging more sustainable journeys is a key priority for us, and we look forward to working with [Arriva] on future initiatives that match our ambition and complement our simple and friendly passenger experience.”
