AMERICAN Airlines is introducing a new service for travelers who struggle with unpredictable TSA lines.
The experimental system is historic news for a major airport.
American Airlines will soon partner with The Landline Company to launch a luxury coach connecting service.
The service operates from Wilmington Airport in Delaware to Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania and vice versa.
According to American Airlines’ website, “This premium coach experience offers many of the same amenities as a flight and is booked like any other connecting flight on our network.”
In addition, passengers departing Wilmington Airport do not have to check their luggage until they arrive by shuttle.
Read more about American Airlines
This service ultimately eliminates the need for travelers to stand in long TSA lines to check their luggage, which could cause delays in boarding the plane.
The service will feature 35 premium leather seats and will also be equipped with free Wi-Fi, entertainment and power at every seat.
“American Airlines/Landline service allows passengers to travel with peace of mind knowing their connections are protected with American Airlines,” Hannah Tamura, a Landline spokeswoman, told the Delaware River & Bay Authority.
“When you ride Landline, you eliminate the hassle of finding a ride or driving around and parking at PHL.
“The ability to pass through TSA security at ILG instead of waiting in unpredictable security lines at PHL is an added benefit.”
Delaware State Senator Marie Pinkey also released a statement calling the service a “welcome addition.”
“American Airlines’ new landline connection is a welcome addition to the customer offering at Wilmington Airport.
“We now have easy and seamless access to American Airlines’ global network at Wilmington Airport, including convenient one-stop service to more than 100 destinations around the world through the Philadelphia hub.
“With its focus on comfort, low costs and customer service, our Wilmington home airport is on the move!”
The new services are scheduled to launch at Delaware Airport on October 7.
The coach currently runs six times a day between Wilmington and Philadelphia airports and back.
Passengers can also earn AAdvantage miles on their fixed-line travel.
Cities from which American Airlines x landline operates
While American Airlines is only introducing landline coach service at Wilmington Airport, it is already available in some cities. The experience is available at:
- Allentown/Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Atlantic City, New Jersey
- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Using American Airlines’ new landline service is pretty straightforward.
Travelers book their trip as usual with American Airlines.
Instead of a connecting flight, the connection to and from Philadelphia will show “Operated by The Landline Company.”
After booking, passengers can check in for their coach just as they would for their flight.
Commuters arrive at the airport, check in as usual and board the shuttle.
Finally, they board their plane and the shuttle company ensures that the luggage is transported to the assigned plane.
The US Sun has asked American Airlines for comment.