Carousel Buses has debuted the Flightline brand for its 102 service between High Wycombe and Heathrow Airport in a move that will also see more journeys to and from the air travel hub introduced.
The Go-Ahead subsidiary has worked with Heathrow on both changes. Additional journeys to the airport will replace the current 101 route, which operates between High Wycombe and Uxbridge only.
Seven double-deckers are to receive the green livery, with the uplifted timetable beginning on 2 June. Those buses will have free wi-fi, USB charging points, next stop announcements, and luggage racks.
Carousel Buses says that the £2 bus fare cap in England has helped patronage on route 102 to grow by over 50%, allowing the improvements to be made. Heathrow Airport has also contributed financially to the changes as part of its work to encourage more travel to and from the node by sustainable modes.
Speaking about the Flightline brand and improvements, Carousel Buses Managing Director Luke Marion adds: “This is excellent news for airport workers, air travellers and bus passengers living in the Chilterns. The Flightline service will increase frequency from hourly to half-hourly and we have invested in a fresh, improved fleet.
“This is the best way to access the airport on the A40 corridor, and the improved service would not have been possible without the continued support of Heathrow Airport.
“The growth of our partnership continues to demonstrate what can be achieved by bus operators and key partners working together. We are looking forward to welcoming more passengers on board from 2 June.”
Heathrow Airport Route Development Lead Matthew Wooll adds: “Our partnership with Carousel Buses is delivering some great improvements to Heathrow’s coach and bus network.
“We want to see many more passengers and colleagues choosing to use public transport to the airport, which takes cars off the road and reduces emissions and congestion, in line with our sustainability goals.” Discounted season tickets are available to Heathrow employees via the Carousel Buses app.
