Tube passengers will be able to use their mobile phones throughout their journey after Transport for London awarded a 20-year concession to BAI Communications to deliver full mobile coverage across the network.
Uninterrupted 4G mobile coverage is already available on the eastern half of the Jubilee line and will be expanded in phases to ticket halls, platforms and tunnels across the network over the next three years, with all areas and lines due to have full coverage by the end of 2024.
The mobile network being delivered by BAI will be available for use by all mobile operators and will also be 5G ready, allowing for a seamless upgrade in the future.
Tube tunnels will also be used to provide full fibre connectivity across the city, which can then be connected to buildings.
In addition to benefiting customers, the concession will generate revenue for TfL across its 20-year length.
Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “I promised Londoners that if they re-elected me for a second term as Mayor I would deliver 4G throughout the Tube network.
“It’s already up and running on the eastern half of the Jubilee line and I’m delighted to announced today that I am fulfilling that commitment and full internet access will be available across the Tube, with key central London stations such as Oxford Circus and Euston set to benefit before the end of next year.
“Protecting jobs and stimulating our city’s economy is a top priority for me as London rebuilds after this pandemic, and investing in London’s connectivity and digital infrastructure is central to this.”
Shashi Verma, Chief Technology Officer at TfL, added: “London Underground was born in the 19th century, and this concession to deliver mobile coverage to the whole Tube network ensures it continues to adapt for customers in the 21st century.
“Providing mobile connectivity to customers within the tunnels and on platforms across London will help them stay connected more easily, and will both provide a long-term revenue stream for TfL and support economic growth across the city.”
Billy D’Arcy, CEO of BAI Communications UK, said: “Our long-term partnership with TfL will completely transform the passenger experience, as well as helping to boost London’s economy and providing social benefits for years to come.
“By building the most advanced network of its kind in the world here, we are helping London leapfrog other major cities in terms of connectivity and ensure that the capital remains the most attractive place for investment.”
