Request ID: FOI-1566-2324 Date published: 11 September 2023
You asked
- Please provide estimated numbers of fare evasion by transport mode for all TfL modes for 2022 and 2023 (up to now).
- How much money the estimated fare evasion for 2022 and 2023 (up to now) cost to TfL.
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-1566-2324
Thank you for your request received on 14 August 2023 asking for information about fare evasion. Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we do hold the information you require. You asked: Please provide estimated numbers of fare evasion by transport mode for all TfL modes for 2022 and 2023 (up to now) We take fare evasion extremely seriously and our team of 450 revenue inspectors operate across our network day and night, using new technology and intelligence to identify anyone travelling without the correct ticket or payment for the journey they are making. We penalise and prosecute thousands of fare evaders every year. We have strategies in place to tackle fare evasion head on and a commitment to reduce any form of ticketing irregularities. Efforts to tackle fare evasion have been helped by changes to the way we manage our stations, with more staff visible in and around stations including on gate lines. The current rate of fare evasion rate across bus, rail and trams (TfL modes) is estimated to be 3.9%. How much money the estimated fare evasion for 2022 and 2023 (up to now) cost to TfL? Fare evasion takes away vital revenue for us to reinvest in our transport network to keep London moving. Based on our current data the annual loss due to unpaid fares during the financial year 2022/23 is estimated to be circa £130m. If this is not the information you are looking for please do not hesitate to contact me. Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal. Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
