Elizabeth line success challenges Heathrow Express; UK train operators report increased passenger journeys

All but one of the UK’s train companies saw an increase in passenger numbers in the latest annual report from the rail regulator, although some of the reported increases are inflated due to poorer performance in 2023.
The company that saw a decline in passenger journeys was Heathrow Express, which the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) notes may be due to increased competition from the Elizabeth line. The current Heathrow Express management contract expires in 2028, leaving open the possibility