The barriers were open and a whole morning’s trade lost for the city's transport network today as the Oyster card system crashed again.

London Underground are counting the costs as millions of pay-as-you-go customers hit by the fault traveled for free since 05.30 GMT.

LU blame contractors

It’s the second time in two weeks that the system has failed and London Underground are pointing their finger at contractors, Transys. A Transport for London spokesman said:

"We believe that this problem, like the last one resulted from incorrect data tables being sent out by our contractor, Transys."

40,000 cards were corrupted in the previous incident but officials are keen to stress that no passenger’s cards have been compromised this time.

Maximum cash fare 

Commuters could be hit with the maximum £4 fare if after entering the system this morning, they touch out. TfL said:

"Cards are not being disabled as a result of the problem and we will automatically refund any passengers who may be charged the maximum £4 fare as a result of not being able to touch in and out at the beginning and end of their journeys. Oyster card holders need take no further action.