Bus Travel Sees 'Steady Growth' as Flyers Seek Alternative Transportation

The bus industry is experiencing a steady climb as more travelers explore alternative modes of transportation amidst rising airfares and unease over flying. Recent plane incidents and climbing ticket costs have left many Americans reevaluating their travel options—and buses are emerging as a preferred choice.

Kai Boysan, CEO of Flix North America—the parent company of FlixBus and Greyhound—shared with Fox News Digital that intercity bus ridership is on the rise. According to Boysan, "Intercity bus ridership has been steadily rising as more long-distance travelers reconsider their options, recognizing buses as a natural alternative to flying or driving."

Boysan noted that fear of flying, while not new, remains a significant factor. Whether it’s personal comfort, the desire for more control over the journey, or simply the avoidance of takeoff jitters, many travelers are deciding to stay grounded.

In 2024, ridership across the Greyhound and FlixBus network reportedly grew by double digits compared to the previous year, and this momentum has carried into 2025. A FlixBus spokesperson added that more data on this upward trend is expected by April.

Beyond fear of flying, bus travel is gaining traction due to practical benefits: no baggage fees, no security lines, and direct city-to-city access. Add in the unpredictability of air travel and climbing airfares, and you’ve got a recipe for bus travel resurgence. Honestly, who wouldn’t prefer skipping the airport chaos for a stress-free boarding process?

Brian Morris from Salt Lake City, who struggles with aerophobia, has even created a tool to help anxious flyers—"Flight Deck: Fear Of Flying Flash Cards"—to ease nerves around takeoff and turbulence. Still, Morris encourages others to trust commercial aviation’s stellar safety record, though he admits the constant barrage of aviation mishap stories in the media doesn’t help.

Google Trends data also points to heightened anxiety, with searches for "Is it safe to fly?" spiking in February alone. It’s a clear indicator that many travelers are looking for reassurance—or viable alternatives.

Boysan emphasized how the bus travel experience has evolved to meet modern demands. "Traveling via bus is much different than the past and has evolved into a modern, tech-driven experience, offering free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and spacious seating that make long trips more comfortable and convenient," he said. When you throw in the affordability of bus fares, especially compared to last-minute airfare costs, the appeal is undeniable.

"People want more control over their travel experiences, and intercity buses are stepping up to meet this demand," Boysan added. It seems the humble bus has undergone a bit of a glow-up, and travelers are here for it.