In a bold move set to reshape regional transportation, Landline, a Colorado-based ground transportation innovator, is expanding its revolutionary flight-to-bus service in collaboration with American Airlines and Air Canada. This hybrid travel solution eliminates the need for short-haul regional flights by seamlessly connecting smaller destinations with major airports via comfortable motorcoach service—all integrated into the airline booking systems.
This innovative model, dubbed “flight-on-a-bus,” enables passengers to check in once, go through security, and enjoy a streamlined journey that combines the comfort of modern buses with the convenience of traditional flights.
✨ Toronto to Kingston and Chicago to South Bend & Rockford: New Routes Launching Fall 2025
In a strategic expansion, Landline is launching a third route with Air Canada starting September 23, 2025, connecting Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Kingston Norman Rogers Airport (YGK). This route enhances access to Eastern Ontario, especially for government workers, university students, and tourists heading to Kingston’s historic waterfront.
Meanwhile, American Airlines and Landline will begin service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to South Bend International Airport (SBN) beginning October 4, followed by a route to Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) starting October 20.
These routes provide four to five daily departures, positioning Landline as a practical and eco-conscious alternative to costly regional air services.
🚍 What Is the Landline Bus-to-Flight Model?
Landline operates luxury motorcoaches outfitted with Wi-Fi, spacious seating, restrooms, and USB charging ports. The key innovation is its integration into airline booking systems, meaning customers book the bus leg of the trip the same way they would book a flight. They check in once, drop luggage, and relax—Landline takes care of the transfer.
What sets Landline apart is airside access. In some airports, passengers can board the bus behind airport security, meaning no re-screening or additional check-in at transfer points. Baggage is automatically transferred, just like on a connecting flight.
🎯 Why This Matters for Regional Travel
In North America, short regional flights have become increasingly inefficient and expensive, especially post-pandemic. Airlines face challenges operating flights under 250 miles due to crew shortages, fuel costs, and low seat demand. Landline fills this gap by:
- Reducing carbon emissions compared to jet fuel
- Cutting down operational costs for airlines
- Offering doorstep-to-runway convenience for passengers
With American Airlines, Air Canada, and Sun Country Airlines as partners, Landline is proving that bus connections can be just as seamless and reliable as traditional flights.
💺 A Seamless Passenger Experience
Passengers using Landline can expect an experience akin to a regional first-class airline cabin. The buses offer comfortable reclining seats, personal climate control, and ample overhead storage. According to the company, many travelers even prefer the bus ride to short flights, thanks to fewer delays, less stress, and no TSA lines at secondary stops.
Passengers also earn loyalty miles on programs like AAdvantage (American Airlines) and Aeroplan (Air Canada), integrating the service into frequent flyer benefits.
🌎 Landline’s Growing Footprint in North America
Founded in 2019, Landline started with a few routes in Colorado, partnering with Sun Country Airlines to connect rural communities to major airports. Despite pandemic-related disruptions, the service model proved resilient and scalable. As of late 2025, Landline is expected to operate a fleet of 30+ buses across multiple U.S. and Canadian cities.
Additional service hubs under consideration include:
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP)
- Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
✈️ American Airlines and Air Canada: Why They Chose Landline
For airlines, replacing short-haul flights with motorcoach links isn’t just about convenience—it’s about sustainability and economics.
According to IATA, domestic short-haul flights under 300 miles are among the least fuel-efficient, accounting for a disproportionate amount of per-passenger emissions. By contrast, motorcoaches emit 80% less carbon per passenger mile.
Both American Airlines and Air Canada have pledged to cut carbon emissions significantly by 2035 and view Landline as part of their sustainability roadmap.
💼 Business, Tourism, and Regional Economies Win
Landline’s services are expected to stimulate regional tourism, boost airport traffic, and provide economic uplift to smaller cities. With easier access to major hubs, rural travelers can connect globally without the need to drive long distances or endure costly overnight stays.
Airports like South Bend, Rockford, and Kingston stand to gain new relevance as accessible nodes in the continental air travel network.
🛫 The Future of Hybrid Air-Ground Travel
Landline’s model is likely a glimpse into the future of regional transportation, combining the efficiency of ground travel with the reach of commercial aviation. As traveler expectations evolve post-pandemic toward flexibility, simplicity, and sustainability, companies like Landline are positioning themselves as leaders in reimagining how we move.
Whether you’re heading to a university town, a regional conference, or reconnecting with family, your next flight may just start with a bus—and that could be a very good thing.
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