Member Article

Chiltern Railways in EE telecoms tie-up to provide Wi-Fi across its network

South east train operator Chiltern Railways has announced a new partnership with mobile operator EE to provide Wi-Fi across its network of trains.

The partnership will see EE expand on-board network capacity and coverage through the installation of a wireless trackside network in an attempt to improve connectivity and reduce signal black spots.

The project will be a testbed for Chiltern’s parent company Arriva, who will look to roll out a similar service across its UK-wide franchises if it proves a success, including the new Northern Rail franchise.

Thomas Ableman, Commercial Director of Chiltern Railways said: “We were one of the first train companies to introduce free Wi-Fi around five years ago on our London to Birmingham trains.

“Since then we’ve invested in 4G capability, however due to black spots on the line the service was limited in places. It was always our vision to deliver truly connected mobility and now, thanks to our partnership with EE, Chiltern will have the fastest and most reliable Wi-Fi in the country. We’ve just made it far easier to do business on the move.”

Marc Allera, Chief Executive Officer at EE added: “Our ambition is to connect people wherever they are. Trains – metal carriages that move at high speed – present unique challenges, and our network engineers are innovating to make sure that commuters can always connect.

“This is just the beginning of a new approach to building a mobile network that’s always there for our customers, giving them the connection they need.”

Roll out of the new Wi-Fi capabilities will occur in stages, with full coverage expected by December 2016.