The 'Hopper' fare, introduced by Sadiq Khan in 2016, is set to get an upgrade: passengers could soon make an unlimited number of bus and tram journeys within a one-hour period for the cost of a single £1.75 fare. This move would grant significantly more flexibility to Londoners navigating the city's transport network.
Under the current scheme, two bus or tram journeys can be made within an hour using the same Oyster or contactless payment card, provided they are consecutive. The proposed expansion aims to remove this restriction, allowing passengers to make multiple short-distance trips without incurring additional costs.
The change is expected to particularly benefit residents who rely on buses and trams for multiple daily trips, such as those commuting to local amenities, schools or connecting to other transport modes. By extending the Hopper fare's validity, Mayor Khan's office hopes to encourage greater use of public transport, reducing reliance on private vehicles and contributing to cleaner air in the city.
The proposal forms part of a broader commitment to making public transport more accessible and affordable for all Londoners, particularly amidst ongoing cost of living pressures. The original Hopper fare has been widely praised for saving commuters money, and this expansion is expected to further enhance its positive impact on household budgets.
Further details regarding the implementation timeline and necessary technological adjustments will be announced in due course, with a period of consultation and assessment to follow before the proposal can be integrated into Transport for London's (TfL) operations.