Elizabeth line train caught at double speed limit

One passenger fell over during the incident

An Elizabeth line train jolted causing some passengers to lose their footing after travelling at almost twice the speed limit, the rail safety investigator has revealed.

One passenger fell over after the Heathrow to Shenfield service passed a signal near Manor Park at 45mph (72km/h) instead of the recommended 25mph (40km/h) on 24 September 2024.

There was an "incorrectly placed, inconspicuous and dirty" speed limit sign, according to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), which said the driver "did not believe that this [jolt] was severe enough to report".

Howard Smith, director of the Elizabeth line, said: "We apologise to customers who were on board the train during this rare incident."

A 25mph sign was "incorrectly placed, inconspicuous and dirty", the report said

A member of staff on board reported the overspeed in east London, according to the RAIB, which recommended offering better refresher training for drivers on "infrequently used routes to avoid knowledge fade".

The report added: "It should have been a larger sign with a left-hand direction arrow, positioned on the approach to the bridge before the points.

"At the time of the incident, the sign was positioned under the bridge, and partially obscured by lineside equipment, which made it difficult to see.

"It was also covered in dirt, further reducing its conspicuity and legibility."

Mr Smith confirmed they had made changes to their procedures in line with the RAIB's recommendations.

Mr Smith added: "Our operator, MTREL, immediately informed the Office of Rail and Road and the RAIB.

"Safety is our top priority and MTREL have already made changes to their procedures in line with the RAIB's recommendations."