A woman from New York was left stunned after discovering that her American Airlines flight was actually a bus journey. The traveller, identified as Alex, shared her experience in a viral video, saying she had no idea she was boarding a bus instead of a plane.
Passenger Discovers Bus Instead of Plane
Alex booked her trip to Colorado via Google Flights, which displayed a flight icon and number implying it was a regular flight. Upon reaching the gate, she was shocked to see a bus waiting instead of an aircraft. The route was from Scranton to Philadelphia, but the first leg turned out to be by road.
Airline’s Partnership With Bus Operator
She later learned that American Airlines partners with Landline, a motor coach company that connects smaller regional airports to major hubs. The service operates under flight numbers, which can confuse passengers booking through third-party sites that don’t clearly label such routes.
Passenger Felt Misled Despite Comfort
Although Alex admitted the bus ride was comfortable with Wi-Fi, charging ports, and spacious seats she said the lack of clarity from the booking platform made her feel misled. “I didn’t know I’d be flying on four wheels,” she joked in her video.
Airline Offers Compensation
After the incident gained traction online, American Airlines apologized and offered her a $75 travel credit. The case has reignited discussion about the growing trend of airlines using bus transfers for short regional routes without proper labeling on booking portals.
