Transport for London (TfL) enforces maximum journey times on the Oyster card system to prevent fare misuse. Passengers who exceed these limits risk being charged double the maximum fare, which could amount to £18.80 for travel within Zones 1-9 or up to £52.00 for journeys beyond Zone 9, including the Heathrow Express.
Maximum journey times by zone and time
The allowed travel time depends on the zones used and the time of day. For Monday to Friday between 04:30 and 19:00, the limits are: Zone 1 only – 1 hour 30 minutes; Zones 2 to 3 – 1 hour 30 minutes; Zones 1-2 – 1 hour 40 minutes; Zones 1-3 – 1 hour 50 minutes; Zones 1-4 (for journeys across up to five zones within Zones 1-4) – 1 hour 50 minutes.
After 19:00 on weekdays and all day Saturday, the limits are extended: Zone 1 only – 1 hour 40 minutes; Zone 2 only – 1 hour 40 minutes; Zones 2-3 – 1 hour 40 minutes; Zones 1-2 – 1 hour 50 minutes; Zones 1-3 – 2 hours 5 minutes; Zones 1-4 – 2 hours 5 minutes.
Sundays and public holidays
On Sundays and public holidays, passengers have even more time: Zone 1 only – 1 hour 50 minutes; Zone 2 only – 1 hour 50 minutes; Zones 2-3 – 1 hour 50 minutes; Zones 1-2 – 2 hours; Zones 1-3 – 2 hours 15 minutes; Zones 1-4 – 2 hours 15 minutes. For comprehensive times across Zones 1-6, TfL's website provides full details.
Penalties and refunds
Exceeding the permitted journey time can result in a penalty of twice the maximum fare. According to TfL, these journey times are calculated generously and should only be exceeded in unusual circumstances. If significant delays beyond your control occur, an automatic refund will be processed.
