Travelers have an interesting new option available at South Bend International Airport.
This week, American Airlines launched a land-based service link from SBN to Chicago’s O’hare International Airport (ORD). 35-passenger luxury motorcoaches make four daily trips each way, connecting with the hundreds of American Airlines flights operating from ORD.
The unique difference between these bus trips and past motorcoach links with Chicago airports is that American passengers check in, check luggage and clear TSA Security in South Bend. The motorcoach, with extra legroom, WiFi service and power outlets, then deposits the passengers inside the ‘secure area’ at O’hare. Passengers do not need to repeat check-in or security procedures. They can proceed directly to their connecting gate, headed for anywhere in the world.
While the ground-based connection takes longer than a short-hop flight from SBN to ORD, some passengers may prefer the roomy, comfortable motorcoach to the more compact seating of a small regional jet. Coupled with a shorter drive from home, easier and cheaper parking and shorter lines, it’s easy to see the American Airlines motorcoach connection might be appealing to passengers.
ORD is the third major hub served by American Airlines from South Bend, supplementing flights to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Charlotte (CLT). All of the options are displayed on your American Airlines app or website.
United Airlines continues to offer several daily ORD flights from SBN.
