American Airlines expands bus routes from Rockford & South Bend to Chicago O'Hare

Ben Humphrey, Vice President of ORD Operations for American Airlines, stated: "We are always looking for new ways to serve our customers, and this innovative and convenient option for short-haul travel will provide more Midwesterners access to American’s robust network from O’Hare."

The premium motorcoach service facilitates airside-to-airside transportation at Chicago O'Hare without requiring additional security screening or baggage re-checking. Passengers can check their bags at their local airport before boarding a motorcoach that takes them directly airside at ORD. Checked baggage is transferred conveniently between coaches and aircraft by AA staff.

Passengers can book this service through American Airlines' website and earn AAdvantage miles on Landline travel. The motorcoaches seat up to 35 customers with features such as leather seats in a 2-1 configuration, ample legroom, complimentary WiFi, entertainment options, and in-seat power.

This regional connectivity comes amid American's broader expansion efforts in Chicago. According to Cirium data as of July 2025, ORD ranks as AA’s fourth-largest hub by seat capacity after Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte Douglas (CLT), and Miami International (MIA).

In addition to expanding in Chicago, Philadelphia remains a significant hub for American Airlines' Landline service. Currently available connections include Allentown/Bethlehem (ABE), Atlantic City (ACY), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AVP), Wilmington (ILG), with plans for further expansion.

Landline also collaborates with United Airlines but will end its partnership soon due to United discontinuing two bus transfer routes.