Later this week the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (TheRide) board of directors will consider a more affordable and convenient option for getting to Detroit Metro Airport starting in April. The proposal would create a public-private partnership with Michigan Flyer (a subsidiary of Indian Trails Bus Company) to provide public transportation to the airport.
“Throughout the transit master plan development process we were told by residents that they needed a convenient, affordable and reliable way to get to the airport,” said TheRide CEO Michael Ford. “Partnering with Michigan Flyer could help us fill that need.”
The new service, which will be named AirRide, will provide twelve daily round trips from Ann Arbor to Detroit Metro Airport and will be operated by Michigan Flyer on behalf of TheRide. Michigan Flyer currently operates eight round trips between Ann Arbor and Detroit Metro Airport for $15 one way.
The AirRide partnership will offer four additional trips and provide reduced, more affordable fares on the new total of twelve regularly-scheduled trips. Tickets for AirRide will be offered at an introductory rate of $10 for a one-way trip. The regular adult fare will be $12 with a reservation or $15 without a reservation. Discounts for seniors, people with a disability, and children will also be offered.
“We are very pleased to partner with TheRide to improve public transportation service for travelers to and from Ann Arbor,” said Gordon Mackay, president of Indian Trails, the parent company of Michigan Flyer. “Public transportation helps to alleviate highway congestion, saves energy and expense for consumers, and improves the environment.”