Complaints About Hot London Buses Hit Record High Amid Heatwaves

LONDON — Public dissatisfaction with the heat on London's buses has reached an unprecedented level, with Transport for London (TfL) confirming a record number of complaints this year. The rising figures highlight a growing challenge for the city's transport network as London experiences increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves.

This year, TfL received 276 complaints about buses being too hot, a substantial jump from the 155 complaints logged in 2024 and 149 in 2023. The increase is even more stark when compared to the latter half of 2022, which saw just 51 complaints. This dramatic rise correlates with an exceptionally warm period in the capital, which has seen temperatures consistently exceed 28°C (82.4°F) for several consecutive days, a key metric for a heatwave.

While London's extensive bus network, which facilitates over 1.8 billion journeys annually, is an essential part of the city's infrastructure, its climate control systems are not universally designed for extreme heat. TfL has confirmed that over 6,000 buses in the fleet are equipped with air-cooling systems. However, these systems often fall short of full air conditioning, which can leave passengers feeling uncomfortable during prolonged periods of high temperatures.

In response to the complaints, TfL has been exploring and implementing a range of measures. Lorna Murphy, TfL’s Director of Buses, stated, "We value all customer feedback and continue to explore ways to improve comfort on our buses, particularly during extended hot periods." She also highlighted existing measures, including the installation of reflective roofs and insulation to reduce heat absorption, as well as actively encouraging passengers to use open windows for better ventilation. Furthermore, she confirmed that all new double-decker buses joining the fleet are now fitted with modern air-cooling systems as standard.

The issue of heat is not limited to London's bus service. According to a recent report, the Victoria Line on the London Underground was identified as the city's hottest tube line last year, with average summer temperatures frequently surpassing 30°C (86°F). This ongoing problem across the transport network has prompted TfL to issue travel advice during hot weather, urging passengers to stay hydrated and be mindful of other commuters.

As of early August 2025, there are no immediate plans for a complete overhaul of the existing bus fleet's cooling systems. The focus remains on improving new vehicles and encouraging passengers to provide feedback. The recent surge in complaints, however, underscores the need for more robust climate control solutions as London adapts to a changing climate. Discussions with bus operators and manufacturers are ongoing to find long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure passenger comfort and safety during future heatwaves.

(Sources: Local media outlets of London)