Docklands Light Railway CAF trains re-enter service

7 September saw the return to service of the first of 54 CAF-built five-car trains after 10 months without carrying passengers, with re-introduction of the Stratford–Woolwich service. The air-conditioned trains were initially introduced in September 2025, but were taken out of service on a precautionary basis six weeks later over concerns at technical problems with the interface between automatic train operation and the braking system. The manufacturer has carried out modifications that have overcome the problem. 

 

Stuart Harvey, Chief Operating Officer, Transport for London (TfL), said, 'We’re pleased that the first of our new DLR trains has returned to customer service following the completion of a thorough programme of modifications, testing and assurance. Safety is always our top priority, and we took the decision to remove the trains from service as a precaution while we worked with CAF to investigate the issue and implement a solution. I apologise for the delay in reintroducing the trains but am pleased this marks an important milestone in delivering a modern new fleet for the DLR. As we begin the phased reintroduction of the trains, customers will start to benefit from more spacious and accessible journeys, while we continue to monitor performance and introduce further trains into service’. 

 

The 86.7m trains were ordered from CAF in July 2019, with delivery starting in February 2023, and will replace the BN-built B90/92 cars dating from 1991-1993.