However, that idea uncovered three issues:

1. The challenge of catching an early morning flight.

2. The cost of parking at Detroit Metro Airport for a week.

3. Five people with luggage, one of whom is known for being an overpacker.

Our flight left at 6:30 a.m., which means we needed to arrive at the airport by 4:30 a.m. However, with five people, I wanted some extra time, so I planned to arrive by 4:00 a.m. Additionally, someone would need to drop off the other four with their luggage and take the shuttle from the off-site lot to the departure terminal. Let’s face it, our family is like herding cats. Better to allow some extra time.

We are a solid hour and a half from the airport, without construction. This means we need to leave home by 2:00 a.m. Typically, I would book a hotel room at the airport, but we would still have to check out by 4:00 a.m. and be up by 3:00 a.m. So, we wouldn’t be saving much time, and that would cost about $250 for the Park and Go rates. Add to that the $50 for gas, and the cost would be at least $300.

Then, there’s the non-quantifiable issue of stress. Loading luggage into a vehicle with limited space in the middle of the night and driving when everyone is already tired, especially with a six-year-old, wouldn’t be a great way to kick off our Hawaiian dream vacation.

Looking for a hotel at your final destination? Here are some options.

The Michigan Flyer Solution

The solution to all these issues was a bus ride on the Michigan Flyer. We drove 20 minutes across town, dropped the family off at the East Lansing Marriott, one person parked the car, and the rest of us loaded our luggage onto the luxury bus, without worrying about a thing.

Once we reached the airport, we were dropped off at departures at the McNamara terminal. However, they also stop at the DTW Evans terminal. The round-trip price for all five of us was $224.50, including parking. At the time of ticketing, I saved around $80 and eliminated a lot of headaches—no worries about a tired driver.

The entire trip from East Lansing to the airport takes about two hours, including stops in Brighton and downtown Ann Arbor.

Michigan Flyer Amenities

The Michigan Flyer has many amenities, including:

• Deluxe ergonomic seating with spacious legroom
• Free WiFi
• Individual climate control systems 
• Reading lights 
• Tinted side windows offering expansive views while ensuring privacy 
• Mobile charging stations are available at every seat 
• On-board restroom 
• Enclosed overhead storage compartments

Piper’s Pro Planning: While service animals are allowed on the bus, pets are not.

Michigan Flyer Route and Stops

The Michigan Flyer route runs from East Lansing through Ann Arbor to Detroit Metro Airport. Major stops include:

• East Lansing Marriott, close to Michigan State University (MSU)
• Blake Transit Center in Ann Arbor
• McNamara and Evans Terminals at Detroit Metro Airport

Using the Moovit app, you can find the nearest Michigan Flyer bus stop, track your next stop, and receive get off notifications. Moovit is often rated as the best public transit app for its real-time status information, detailed routes, and ability to track the Michigan Flyer line.

Real-Time Travel Information

You can rely on real-time schedules and live arrival times. With the real-time bus tracker, passengers can view the live map or even an offline PDF map for backup. This gives you access to the complete schedule, allowing you to plan for potential bus delays or service changes. If your flight is delayed and you miss your return bus, you can catch the next available bus that has an open seat.

The Michigan Flyer’s official website also provides service alerts, route changes, and updated stop locations to keep you informed. This real-time data is extremely helpful for those using public transit lines in and around Detroit and Ann Arbor.

Ticket Prices and Trip Planning

The minimum cost for a one-way ticket is significantly lower than parking at the airport. You’re allowed two checked bags and one carry-on per person. While there may be additional charges for extra luggage or special handling, the ticket prices still offer solid value.

Utilize the trip planner on the Michigan Flyer site or sync with the Moovit app to optimize your route and connections to various transit options, including light rail routes, train schedules, and public transit fees.

For additional information and to reserve your Michigan Flyer tickets, visit here.

Urban Mobility and Accessibility

With support from multiple transit agencies, including the Detroit Transportation Corporation, Michigan Flyer is part of a broader effort toward sustainable urban mobility. Easily connect from the ground transportation center at DTW to the QLine Detroit, major public transit stations, or local buses. In Ann Arbor, students can utilize other transportation services, such as those offered by the University of Michigan.

Safety and Modern Technology

Michigan Flyer buses feature advanced safety systems, including Mobileye technology that monitors road conditions. Our driver noticed a traffic jam and was able to take a service road to expertly avoid the backup. The friendly Michigan Flyer drivers are recognized for their professionalism, punctuality, and support with passengers’ needs. Our driver helped load our luggage.

What to Know Before You Go

•  The boarding point in East Lansing is located on William Street, under the skywalk.
• Bring your Real ID or passport to fulfill Real ID requirements for U.S. air travel.
• Always check the route maps and real-time map view of Michigan Flyer before heading out.
• The Moovit app allows you to track the Michigan Flyer line and provides directions to the nearest Michigan Flyer bus.

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