Tokyo Metro Joins Consortium to Operate London’s Elizabeth Line
The Japanese rail operator will help run the £18 billion line, known for reliability issues, in its first overseas operational contract starting May 2025.
- GTS Rail Operations, a joint venture of Tokyo Metro, Go-Ahead Group, and Sumitomo Corporation, has been awarded the contract to operate London's Elizabeth Line for seven years, with an option for a two-year extension.
- This marks the first time Tokyo Metro will operate a railway line outside Japan, bringing its expertise in punctuality and safety to the UK.
- The Elizabeth Line, which opened in 2022, has faced reliability challenges, with nearly 17% of trains arriving late between April and June 2024.
- The new contract replaces Hong Kong-based MTR Corporation, which has operated the line since 2014, reflecting shifting geopolitical and economic priorities in the UK.
- The Rail, Maritime and Transport union criticized the decision to continue privatized operations, arguing profits should be reinvested in public services rather than distributed to private shareholders.
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