economy
Spirit Airlines is Dead and a Bus Travel Boom Looks Likely
For most Americans, riding a bus means abandoning expectations of basic dignity – but with an increase in ridership, that could change
TL;DR
- The closure of Spirit Airlines has caused a 20% increase in Greyhound searches and a 30% rise in passengers on overlapping routes.
- Rising flight prices (up 27% year-to-date) and stable bus/train ticket prices (up 4%) are driving passengers towards more affordable bus travel.
- The average bus ticket price is $53, compared to an average plane ticket price of $500.
- A declining number of Americans, particularly young people, have driver's licenses, increasing reliance on public transit.
- Greyhound is undergoing fleet modernization, introducing new buses with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and updated seating.
- Despite improvements, Greyhound's online reviews remain poor, citing issues like breakdowns and poor ventilation.
- Cities are investing in renovating bus stations, such as Chicago and Philadelphia.
- Historical context shows bus travel was once romanticized and played a role in the civil rights movement, but neglect and competition from air travel led to its decline.