The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) is partnering with TVC-Cherry Capital Airport to launch a new pilot service dedicated to helping air travelers reach their early morning flights. BATA created this trial service based on feedback gathered from residents and visitors.

“We are excited to meet this community need,” Chris Davis, Interim Executive Director of BATA, said in a statement. “From navigating parking options to finding someone willing to wake up early, there are some unique challenges that come with early morning travel. We’re thrilled to partner with Cherry Capital Airport to offer a convenient and affordable solution to these challenges.”

The new trial service will operate Monday - Friday from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m. Riders can start making reservations on February 24, 2025, with the first official day of service being February 26. Riders need to request a ride at least 48 hours in advance but can schedule up to two weeks in advance of their travel date. The cost to ride is $12 per person and luggage can be safely stored in the seat with the passengers. Initially, the new service area will be limited to Traverse City but may expand based on ridership and demand. To see the trial service area and learn more visit www.bata.net/airport. 

Rides must be scheduled in advance by calling BATA Scheduling at 231.941.2324 or through the BATA Link mobile app, which is available from the Apple and Google Play App Stores. When making a trip request, riders can choose a pick-up or arrival time based on their preference. This trial service is dedicated to airport transportation. In most cases the bus will take riders directly to the airport but may pick up other nearby passengers heading to the airport at the same time.

In addition to this new service, BATA provides multiple transportation options to the airport anywhere in BATA’s service area seven days a week using its Link service. BATA’s Village Loop Route 14 - Acme service also makes regular stops at the Cherry Capital Airport Monday through Friday, with buses departing roughly every two hours heading toward downtown Traverse City or toward the East Bay Beach District Hotels, Holiday Hills and Grand Traverse Resort areas.