FlixBus is resuming long-distance bus service in the United States nearly three months after halting operations amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The bright green buses will hit the road beginning June 25 on routes between 18 cities, primarily on the East and West coasts, with new safety precautions in place.
FlixBus began service again in its European markets as early as May 28.
The reopening U.S. routes include:
Boston – NYC – Philadelphia – Washington, D.C. – Richmond
Dallas – Houston
Los Angeles – San Francisco
Los Angeles – San Diego
Los Angeles – Las Vegas
Los Angeles – Phoenix
Orlando – Miami
Phoenix – Las Vegas (starting July 2)
San Francisco – Sacramento
Seattle – Portland
FlixBus announced new precautions to protect the safety of employees and passengers. The changes are similar to what Peter Pan Bus Lines implemented when the East Coast intercity bus service resumed operations on June 5.
FlixBus is requiring all passengers, except children under the age of 2, to wear face coverings while onboard. Travelers without one will not be allowed to board the bus. They must bring their own face covering, which can be a medical mask, scarf, or other acceptable forms of face coverings.
Drivers will also be required to wear masks and gloves. Seating in the first row of the bus will not be permitted to ensure social distancing from the driver.
Related: FlixBus focuses on helping partner operators during the crisis
Hand sanitizer will greet passengers at the front entrance of the bus. Check-in will be done digitally, for a touchless boarding experience. Passengers will also be asked to maintain 6 feet of distance while boarding and deboarding, though social distancing rules won’t impact where people sit.
Buses will be thoroughly disinfected after each trip, with a focus on high-touch surfaces, including door buttons, handrails, armrests, windowsills, tray tables, and seat belt latches. All cleanings and disinfections of vehicles will be documented with a cleaning report.
“The safety and well-being of our customers, drivers, employees, and overall community is our top priority,” according to a FlixBus statement.
