Passengers travelling between London and Gatwick Airport will soon have more options, as Gatwick Express introduces new early morning and overnight train services from July 18. The timetable changes are designed to make it easier for travellers to catch early weekend departures and return home after late-night flights.

From Saturday, July 18, a new train will leave London Victoria at 3.40am every Saturday, giving passengers more time to reach the airport ahead of early flights. A new overnight return service will also depart Gatwick Airport at 4.35am on Sundays, improving connections back into central London.

The additional services form part of a wider package of improvements being introduced by Gatwick Express this summer to improve the travel experience for passengers.

As well as the new train times, customers can now take advantage of discounted airport lounge access and Fast Track security at Gatwick Airport.

The operator said the changes are aimed at making journeys to and from the airport quicker and less stressful, particularly during the busy summer travel season.

Louis Rambaud, chief customer officer at GTR, said: “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.

“These new customer enhancements are part of our wider strategy to drive growth to key airports on our network.

“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 added: “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.”

Gatwick Express has also introduced improved signs throughout the airport, new ticket retail areas and dedicated staff to help passengers transfer between the airport and the railway station.