The electric trains being re-deployed to the Luton Airport Express (which runs between London St Pancras and Corby) are being internally refurbished. Part of the work involves removal of the First Class accommodation: trains will in future be standard class only. This follows the lead of Stansted Express, which only provides standard class on its new trains.

OK, these airports do not carry as many business passengers as Heathrow and Gatwick. But after lockdown, there has been a trend for leisure passengers to trade up from Economy to Premium Economy or Business for their flights; with encouragement, they could be persuaded to trade up to First Class on the train to the airport.

Siren voices sometimes call for the routine declassification of First Class accommodation on commuter trains in the peak. This misses the point: providing two classes give choice. When I wish to travel from St Albans to London in the peak, I have three choices. I can travel standard class on a stopping train, where I know I will get a seat. I can travel standard class on a fast train where I know I might have to stand. Or I can choose First Class on a fast train, where I will be able to get a seat.

Consumers have a choice of newspapers (I can buy the FT at one price or the Guardian at another): they have a choice of cars (I can buy a Mercedes or a Ford Fiesta). Why shouldn’t I have similar choices when I travel by train?

Railways offering First Class accommodation have another advantage. If they mess up a passenger’s journey, they can always offer a free upgrade as part of the compensation!

When Heathrow Express started, market research showed that a viable number of people would pay a premium for First Class accommodation. Moreover, a significant number would not use the service unless there was First Class seating on the train.

And a tip for those travelling between Luton Airport and London – if you want to ride in First Class to ensure more space or a seat, you can. Just ride the semi-fast Thameslink trains instead. They stop at St Albans, Harpenden then Luton Airport and take 32 minutes instead of 25 – but connections to the London Underground and Central London are better!

Andrew Sharp
Andrew is BTN’s rail expert and a former Director of the International Air Rail Organisation (IARO).