This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Santa Monica FlyAway gets the axe after losing $1.17 million
A patron passes the Flyaway shuttle service bus at Union Station Thursday, July 14, 2011, in Los Angeles.
(
Damian Dovarganes/AP
)
When a bus route averages only 1.3 passengers per trip and loses $36.53 per rider, it's not likely to stick around long. But the Santa Monica FlyAway bus hung in there for more than two years — until now.
The bus, which provides nonstop service between Santa Monica and LAX, will cease operations after Monday, September 5.
"The announcement was made in June and the decision was made to cease service after Labor Day," Charles Pannunzio with L.A. World Airports tells KPCC.
The bus, which started operating in July 2014, ran 17 hourly trips in each direction for a one-way fare of $8.
Officials estimate the bus lost $1.17 million during its two years in operation.
The FlyAway Bus will still maintain service on six other routes including those running from Hollywood, Long Beach, Union Station and Van Nuys.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
