National Express has announced changes to its coach services between Birmingham, Heathrow, and Gatwick, increasing the frequency of services and reducing journey times.
From Thursday 17 April, the operator will increase the number of daily services between Birmingham and Heathrow from 22 to 27. In addition, 18 of the fastest services will see journey times reduced to as little as 2 hours and 15 minutes, making them quicker than rail alternatives.
Services to Gatwick will also become more frequent, with an updated schedule reducing the journey time from Birmingham to 3 hours and 25 minutes—approximately 30 minutes faster than the current schedule.
Ed Rickard, Network Director for National Express, said:We are thrilled to be introducing even faster, better connectivity between Birmingham, Heathrow, and Gatwick, with some coach journeys quicker than rail but at a much lower price.
This latest investment in services from Birmingham means we are offering over double the number of services and faster journey times than any other operator, making it easier than ever for savvy holidaymakers to get to the airport.
Customers can skip the hassle of hauling luggage or changing trains with our direct service from Birmingham Coach Station straight to the airport terminal door. Combined with a brilliant customer experience, travellers can sit back, relax and enjoy a stress-free start to the holidays.
The company has introduced these changes ahead of the Easter holiday period, during which bookings for National Express services to Heathrow and Gatwick have risen by 10% compared with the same period last year.
Ticket prices start from 7 GBP for a one-way journey.
Sophie Chapman, Surface Access Director at Heathrow, said:As part of our commitment to reaching net-zero, Heathrow is dedicated to encouraging the use of sustainable travel options at the airport. Heathrow’s extensive coach network provides direct services to many towns and cities across the country, and we are very pleased that journey times between Birmingham and the airport are about to get even quicker and more frequent.
