New Public Transportation Service Connects Ann Arbor & Metro Airport

Starting Monday, Ann Arbor residents can take one of 12 trips offered daily by the new AirRide public transportation service to Detroit Metro Airport. The convenient, service to or from the airport will be offered at an introductory price $10 each way with advance reservation through July 30.

“Ann Arbor residents have been asking for a public transportation option between Ann Arbor and Detroit Metro Airport for several years,” Michael Ford, CEO of the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (TheRide), said at a celebration ceremony today. “We’re proud to finally bring this service to Ann Arbor residents and we’re grateful for our partners’ help in making it happen.”

AirRide is a public-private partnership between TheRide, Michigan Flyer, the University of Michigan, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority and the Ann Arbor Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The organizations celebrated their partnership at the Kensington Court hotel, one of the three stops in Ann Arbor that will be served by AirRide.

Bus stops for the service in Ann Arbor include 12 stops daily at the Blake Transit Center and Kensington Court Hotel, and four stops daily the University of Michigan Central Campus Transit Center. At the airport, AirRide offers bus stops at both the McNamara and North terminals. The buses feature comfortable seating, wireless internet and restroom amenities.

“AirRide will provide convenient, low-cost airport shuttle service for Ann Arbor and surrounding communities, and ultimately increase the number of people who use public transportation to get to or from the airport,” said Gordon MacKay, president of Indian Trails. “AirRide will also help conserve energy, reduce both traffic congestion and environmental pollution in the region, and save passengers time and money in the process.”

Following the $10 introductory rate, regular adult fares will be $12 one-way with advance reservation and $15 for walk-ons. Discounts will be available for seniors, people with disabilities and children. Reservations can be booked online at MyAirRide.com.

Passengers departing from the Blake Transit Center can take advantage of $2-per-trip for up to 14 days reduced parking rates at the Fourth Avenue and William Street parking structure, while those leaving from the Kensington Court Hotel can park for just $2 per day.

Because AirRide is a public-private partnership, it also saves taxpayer dollars. While the total cost of the new service is $1.2 million, state operating assistance, passenger fares and private contractor contributions bring TheRide’s direct annual cost for the service to $303,400.

Information on reservations and schedules for AirRide can be found at MyAirRide.com.