American Airlines adds 'gate to gate' bus service between South Bend and Chicago O'Hare airports

Passengers will book, pay and even board the bus just as they would a flight. In its announcement Tuesday, July 22, South Bend International Airport described the process: 

You’ll book your flight as usual, marking South Bend as your departure point. Check in online up to 24 hours beforehand, just like a flight. Check your bags in at South Bend and clear TSA security (your bags will eventually transfer to your flight). Then wait for and board the 35-seat luxury motorcoach with wi-fi and leather seats.

American’s regional partner, The Landline Company, will provide the bus service four times westbound and four times eastbound on a daily basis, Mike Daigle, CEO and executive director of the South Bend airport, said. He said they will be timed to reach most of the flight connections.

This also adds another direct connection to Chicago. Currently, only United Airlines provides daily flights from South Bend to Chicago, taking passengers to O’Hare.