National Express is introducing an expanded timetable for its London–Stansted Airport services from 8 December 2025, increasing frequency across several key routes and reinstating a stop in East London.
The coach operator says the changes respond to continued demand for direct, low-cost airport connections. The new timetable increases daily departures and introduces shorter journey times on some routes.
Under the new schedule, services from Liverpool Street will rise from 49 to 86 departures a day, offering up to four coaches an hour. Services from Canary Wharf will also increase, moving from 22 to 35 daily departures and providing 24-hour coverage.
In addition, Bethnal Green is being reintroduced as a stop, restoring a link between East London and the airport.
Passengers travelling between Stansted and Stratford will see faster journeys, with some services scheduled to take around 45 minutes.
Ed Rickard, Network Director at National Express said:Londoners want airport travel that’s simple, reliable and doesn’t break the bank, and we are delivering exactly that. We already operate more services to Stansted than any other coach operator, and this enhanced timetable gives travellers more choice, value and convenience, even during the busiest time of the year.
Demand for tickets is high ahead of the peak Christmas travel period, so we’re advising customers to book in advance to guarantee a seat for travel.
National Express coaches operating on the Stansted routes offer leather reclining seats, USB charging points, and free Wi-Fi on selected services. Travellers can take up to 20kg of luggage, with flexible ‘Change & Go’ ticket options available. Fares start from 11 GBP one way, excluding booking fees.
With more than 300 daily journeys already running between London and Stansted Airport, the timetable change aims to provide broader coverage across the capital and improve access to the terminal for both local residents and international travellers.
Steve Mills, London Stansted’s Surface Access Strategy Manager, said:We very much welcome the increases by National Express to further strengthen the coach network to and from London Stansted. These additional services will provide more choice and better connectivity for passengers and boost the airport’s proud record as the number one major airport in the UK for passengers using public transport for their airport journey.
