As the first phase of the Elizabeth line trial operations comes to an end, passenger services are likely to begin during the first half of 2022.
Operations will start with 12 trains an hour on the central section of the railway from Paddington to Abbey Wood.
Trains have been running through the Elizabeth line tunnels since last May to build up mileage and reliability ahead of the railway opening to passengers.
Over the Christmas period work continued on the railway, including the commissioning of Siemens signalling software and installation of updated Alstom train software.
Upgrades were also completed to the control communications system and tunnel ventilation system.
The next phase of trial operations will include large-scale exercises designed to test the response to a wide range of potential scenarios on the network and in stations.
Thousands of volunteers will join with TfL, London Underground, MTR Elizabeth line, Network rail and emergency services in the simulation these incidents.
“This is an extremely exciting year for us and for London as we get ever closer to opening the Elizabeth line and welcoming customers from Abbey Wood to Paddington.
“The launch of this much needed and transformational addition to the transport network will be central to the recovery for London and the UK.”
