American Airlines passengers now can go through security at smaller airports and then be bused to PHL

Traveling just got a bit easier for American Airlines passengers catching flights from Philadelphia. The airline now allows customers to go through security at smaller, regional airports before hopping a bus to Philadelphia International Airport.

American Airlines is adding Transportation Security Administration clearance to its Landline motorcoach operation, which buses travelers from Lehigh Valley International and Atlantic City International airports to PHL, the airline announced Wednesday.

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Starting this week, American Airlines passengers can check into their flights from Philadelphia and clear security at the Lehigh Valley and Atlantic City airports. They will board a Landline coach on a secured side of the terminal. Once arriving at PHL, they can head straight to their flights without needing to pass through security again. Checked bags will be directly transferred from the Landline bus to the plane. 

"This program streamlines the passenger experience and enables travelers to seamlessly travel out of a large international airport conveniently by going through our security screening process from a smaller international airport," said Gerardo Spero, TSA's federal security director for PHL. "We have put in numerous security requirements for the bus operators and all airline personnel to ensure robust security protocols are followed at all times."

American Airlines began its Landline service to PHL last summer, but passengers still needed to pass through security once reaching the Philly airport. The buses have transported thousands of passengers to PHL, the airline said. 

The Landline buses hold up to 35 passengers, and feature leather seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, streaming entertainment and power at each seat. Travelers can book seats on Landline buses on American's website.

Founded in 2019, the Colorado-based Landline bus company provides similar services for other airlines across the country, including United Airlines in Denver and Sun Country Airlines in Minnesota and Wisconsin.