Holidaymakers flying from London Luton Airport this month can travel there for free by bus – but there’s one catch.
The airport has launched a month-long scheme offering free bus travel throughout August, although passengers must be able to show a valid boarding pass for a flight departing during the month to qualify.
The offer is available on selected Arriva and Stagecoach services across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, with the airport hoping to encourage more people to leave the car at home.
Passengers simply need to present either a printed or digital boarding pass to the bus driver before boarding. The offer is only valid for flights taking place during August and applies to participating bus routes.
A number of towns are included in the scheme, including Stevenage, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury, Dunstable and Bedford. Some of the eligible services operate 24 hours a day, while others run as frequently as every seven minutes, allowing passengers to be dropped off directly outside the airport terminal.
The initiative comes as London Luton Airport prepares for what it expects to be its busiest summer on record.
The free travel offer also works alongside the Department for Transport’s summer bus scheme for children aged between five and 15 in England. As a result, many families could be able to reach the airport without paying for bus travel this month.
Passengers travelling by train can also take advantage of a separate offer. East Midlands Railway is providing a £20 family ticket on the Luton Airport Express from London St Pancras. The ticket is valid for two adults and up to four children and includes travel on the Luton Dart, which connects passengers directly with the airport terminal.
Airport chief executive Alberto Martin said: “As we prepare for our busiest summer on record, we’re delighted to offer passengers the opportunity to leave the car at home, take advantage of excellent local bus services and travel to the airport for free.
“Fully funded by the airport, this initiative demonstrates our commitment to reinvesting in transport options that benefit both our passengers and the communities we serve.
“By improving access to public transport, we’re helping people save money, reduce congestion and enjoy a simple and friendly journey from the moment they leave home.”
The airport said the scheme is designed to make travelling easier for passengers while cutting congestion around the terminal during one of the busiest periods of the year. Anyone planning to use the offer should check that their bus route is included and make sure they have their boarding pass ready before travelling.