A major change is coming for travelers in Central New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia region. Starting September 22, 2025, a new direct bus service will connect Trenton-Mercer Airport and Philadelphia International Airport. This update is important for anyone who flies with American Airlines and lives or travels through this area. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changing, who is affected, what steps you need to take, and what this means for current and future travel plans.
Summary of the Change
On September 22, 2025, a new direct bus link will begin operating between Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). This service is a partnership between American Airlines and The Landline Company. It is designed to make it much easier for people in Central New Jersey to reach American Airlines flights at PHL. The bus ride will take about 50 minutes and will run three times a day in each direction.
Who Is Affected
This new service is only for passengers who have booked an American Airlines ticket that includes the bus segment. If you are flying with American Airlines and your trip starts or ends at Trenton-Mercer Airport, you can now book a ticket that includes the bus ride to or from Philadelphia International Airport. This means you do not need to arrange your own ground transportation between the two airports if you are connecting to a flight at PHL.
Key Details and Effective Dates
- Service Launch Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
- Who Can Use It: Only American Airlines passengers with a ticket that includes the Landline bus segment
- Booking: Available directly on the American Airlines website (aa.com)
- Bus Operator: The Landline Company, in partnership with American Airlines
- Frequency: Three round-trips per day in each direction
- Travel Time: About 50 minutes, depending on traffic
- Amenities: Luxury motorcoaches with leather seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment
- Security: Passengers clear TSA security at their starting airport and do not need to go through security again at the connecting airport
- Baggage: Checked bags are handled at the starting airport and automatically transferred to the final destination
Bus Schedule
- From Trenton-Mercer Airport to Philadelphia International Airport: 6:45 AM, 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM
- From Philadelphia International Airport to Trenton-Mercer Airport: 8:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 6:40 PM
Required Actions for Travelers
If you plan to use this new connection, here’s what you need to do:
- Book Your Trip: When booking your flight on American Airlines, select Trenton-Mercer Airport as your starting or ending point. The system will automatically include the Landline bus segment if your trip requires a connection at Philadelphia International Airport.
- Check In at Your Origin: Arrive at Trenton-Mercer Airport, check in for your American Airlines flight, and check your bags as usual.
- Clear Security: Go through TSA security at Trenton-Mercer Airport.
- Board the Bus: After security, board the Landline motorcoach at the airport.
- Travel to PHL: Enjoy the ride to Philadelphia International Airport, which takes about 50 minutes.
- Arrive Airside: You will arrive inside the secure area at PHL, so you can go straight to your connecting gate without going through security again.
- Baggage Handling: Your checked bags will be automatically transferred to your final destination.
- Return Trip: If you are returning, board the Landline bus at a designated gate at PHL and ride back to Trenton-Mercer Airport, where you can pick up your luggage.
Implications for Pending and Future Applications
If you have already booked a flight with American Airlines that starts or ends at Trenton-Mercer Airport for travel on or after September 22, 2025, check your itinerary. If your trip involves a connection at Philadelphia International Airport, you may be eligible for the new Landline bus segment. Contact American Airlines to see if your booking can be updated to include this service.
For new bookings, the Landline bus segment will appear as a regular part of your American Airlines itinerary. You will earn AAdvantage miles and Loyalty Points for the bus segment, just like you would for a regular flight.
Why This Change Matters
This new service is more than just a bus ride. It is a big step in making air travel easier for people in Central New Jersey and the surrounding areas. Here’s why:
- Seamless Travel: You do not need to arrange your own ride between airports or worry about missing your connection. Everything is handled as part of your American Airlines trip.
- No Extra Security Checks: Because you clear security at your starting airport, you do not need to go through security again at Philadelphia International Airport. This saves time and reduces stress.
- Baggage Convenience: Your checked bags are taken care of from start to finish. You do not need to pick them up and re-check them at PHL.
- Comfort: The Landline buses offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and entertainment, making the trip pleasant and productive.
Background and Context
Trenton-Mercer Airport is currently undergoing a $200 million expansion, including a new terminal expected to be finished by 2027 and a new fire station by early 2026. These upgrades are meant to modernize the airport, improve the passenger experience, and prepare for more flights and services in the future.
American Airlines and The Landline Company have already launched similar bus connections from Philadelphia International Airport to other cities, including Atlantic City, Lehigh Valley, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, and Wilmington. Trenton-Mercer Airport is now the fifth city to be added to this growing network.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
- American Airlines: Lakshman Amaranayaka, Vice President of PHL Operations, said, “Travelers in Central Jersey will now have easier access to our global network through PHL.”
- Philadelphia International Airport: CEO Atif Saeed called the service “a practical and comfortable option for getting to PHL.”
- Landline Company: Nick Johnson, Vice President and Head of Revenue, explained that by fall 2025, Landline will bring over 1,500 daily seats into American’s Philadelphia hub from five Northeast cities, “unlocking seamless global connectivity for hundreds of thousands of travelers each year.”
- Mercer County Officials: County Executive Dan Benson highlighted the economic benefits and job creation expected from airport upgrades and expanded services.
Community Perspectives
Not everyone is happy about the changes. Some local groups, like Trenton Threatened Skies, have raised concerns about the environmental, health, and financial impacts of expanding the airport and increasing operations. They are asking for more transparency and detailed studies on how these changes could affect the community.
Supporters, on the other hand, point to the benefits of better connectivity, more jobs, and a stronger local economy. They believe the new service will make the region more attractive for business and travel.
Policy Implications and Practical Effects
- For Travelers: The new bus service makes it much easier for people in Central Jersey to reach American Airlines’ global network. It removes the need for separate ground transportation and extra security checks at PHL.
- For American Airlines: This service helps the airline reach more customers in the region, increases the number of people using their flights at PHL, and encourages more people to join and use the AAdvantage loyalty program.
- For Mercer County: The service is expected to increase the number of people using Trenton-Mercer Airport, support local economic growth, and possibly lead to more flights and services in the future.
- For Local Communities: While there are clear economic benefits, some residents worry about more traffic, noise, and environmental problems. These concerns may shape future airport projects and expansions.
Step-by-Step Guide for Using the New Service
To make things as clear as possible, here’s a simple step-by-step guide for travelers:
- Book Your Ticket: Go to aa.com and book a flight that starts or ends at Trenton-Mercer Airport. If your trip includes a connection at Philadelphia International Airport, the Landline bus segment will be included.
- Check In: Arrive at Trenton-Mercer Airport, check in for your flight, and check your bags.
- Go Through Security: Clear TSA security at Trenton-Mercer Airport.
- Board the Bus: After security, board the Landline motorcoach at the airport.
- Ride to PHL: Enjoy the 50-minute ride to Philadelphia International Airport, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities.
- Arrive Airside: You will arrive inside the secure area at PHL, so you can go straight to your connecting gate.
- Baggage: Your checked bags will be automatically transferred to your final destination.
- Returning: For your return trip, board the Landline bus at a designated gate at PHL and ride back to Trenton-Mercer Airport, where you can pick up your luggage.
Future Outlook and What’s Next
- Terminal Expansion: The new terminal at Trenton-Mercer Airport is expected to be finished by 2027. This will modernize the airport and may allow for more flights and services.
- More Landline Connections: If the service is successful, American Airlines and Landline may add similar connections to other regional airports.
- Community Impact: Ongoing discussions about the environmental and financial effects of airport expansion will likely continue. Local voices will play a role in shaping future projects.
Official Resources and Where to Get More Information
For the most up-to-date information, visit these official websites:
- Trenton-Mercer Airport
- American Airlines
- Landline Company
- Mercer County Government
- Philadelphia International Airport
For questions about booking or policies, contact American Airlines customer service or the Trenton-Mercer Airport administration. For official government information about airport operations and regulations, you can also visit the Federal Aviation Administration.
Multiple Perspectives on the Change
- Supporters: They believe the new service will make travel easier, bring more jobs, and help the local economy grow. They also say it will improve the experience for passengers by making connections smoother and less stressful.
- Opponents: Some residents and local groups worry about more noise, traffic, and possible harm to the environment. They want more information and studies before more changes are made.
Practical Guidance for Travelers
- Check Your Itinerary: If you already have a booking for travel on or after September 22, 2025, see if you can add the Landline bus segment to your trip.
- Plan for Security: Remember, you only need to clear security at your starting airport. This saves time and makes your trip easier.
- Enjoy the Ride: Take advantage of the comfortable buses, Wi-Fi, and entertainment during your trip between airports.
- Stay Informed: Watch for updates from American Airlines and Trenton-Mercer Airport about any changes to schedules or procedures.
Conclusion and Takeaways
The new direct bus service between Trenton-Mercer Airport and Philadelphia International Airport, launching September 22, 2025, is a big step forward for travelers in Central New Jersey and the Philadelphia region. It offers a secure, smooth, and comfortable way to connect to American Airlines’ global network. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this move is part of a larger trend to make regional travel easier by linking ground transportation directly with airline networks.
For travelers, the main benefits are convenience, time savings, and a better overall experience. For the region, the service could mean more jobs and economic growth, though some concerns remain about the impact on local communities. As airport expansion continues and new services are added, it’s important for travelers and residents to stay informed and share their views.
If you’re planning to fly with American Airlines from Trenton-Mercer Airport after September 22, 2025, check your options and consider using this new service for a smoother, more connected travel experience.
Learn Today
Trenton-Mercer Airport → Regional airport in New Jersey serving Central Jersey and connecting to major hubs.
Philadelphia International Airport → Major international airport in Philadelphia, serving national and global flights.
Landline Company → Bus operator partnering with American Airlines to provide integrated ground transportation.
AAdvantage → American Airlines’ loyalty program allowing passengers to earn miles and points.
TSA Security → Transportation Security Administration’s passenger screening process at American airports.
This Article in a Nutshell
A new direct luxury bus service begins in 2025, connecting Trenton-Mercer and Philadelphia airports exclusively for American Airlines passengers, simplifying travel with seamless security and baggage handling.
— By VisaVerge.com
