An airport shuttle, airport shuttle bus or airport bus is a type of bus utilized in transporting people to, from or even within airports. They are usually incorporate special branding and have larger luggage space as compared to an ordinary bus. These airport shuttles have been used since the 1960s - from the time British European Airways, a nationalized operator, employed the Routemaster archetypal London red buses in a somewhat blue & white livery and with luggage trailers servicing Heathrow Airport.

Some of the types of airport shuttle operation include:

On airport transfers - This is when a bus transport in an airport is operated by the airline, airport owner or contractor for either. It can take on the form of an airside transfer if airports don't use a Jet bridge, for safety reasons or for long distance type of transfers wherein passengers are transferred from the airport's terminal departure or arrival gate towards the aircraft. This is also called the apron bus or they can use a trailers bus. These buses are commonly fitted with either a minimal or no seating capacity so; passengers need to stand during the journey. Sometimes, they may have driving cabs on both ends.

Terminal transfers are for cases wherein the airport has multiple terminals that are apart or aren't physically connected. This is also for cases where there's no transfer alternative. These are commonly "zero-fare" transfer buses that transfer connecting passengers coming from one terminal to the other.

Car park transfers are for cases wherein the airport owned or the affiliated car parks are relatively far from the airport's terminal building. In this case, the airport owner or the contractor provides complimentary car park shuttle buses to make circular or even shuttle runs in-between car park bus stands and terminals.

Off airport transfers - This is when a third party company offers services to airport passengers and operates these buses as part of the business. These entail pick-up and drop-off points close to the airport terminal. Aside from having extra luggage space, these services are able to provide cheap car parking some distances from the airport through transfers to shuttle buses. This can take the form of full sized buses, mini buses, luxury coaches or those that may have luggage trailers.

Car rental companies can also provide off airport transfers. These companies often have off-site vehicles wherein they transfer their customers through regular buses.

Airport Shuttle Hotel Services

Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand's Super Shuttle Passenger Transport System as well as Custom Transfer and Tours is owned and operated by Tourism Transport Limited. It is considered as the only nationwide service provider for airport ground transport and it provides continues services in nine key centers. This Super Shuttle system is part of the travel and tourism infrastructure of New Zealand as it interfaces with airlines and airports across the country.

This company dedicates itself to building up their shuttle services and to leading the market via quality services and innovation. Their services are noted as friendly, affordable, efficient and convenient. This is a smart choice for New Zealand travelers as compared to having expensive taxis take you to your hotel.

Super Shuttle services offer transfers to/from all major airports in New Zealand. Their drivers can pick you and your luggage up and drop you off your hotel, office or home. They operate 24/7. They don't have meters so you don't have to worry about getting stuck in traffic. The fare is already calculated up front and they stick to them. Their spacious and modern mini vans are able to seat up to 11 passengers. They also have a huge trailer that can accommodate all sizes and shapes of luggage.

Their head office is located in Auckland. But they also have 5 regional offices. This includes Queenstown, Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua and Hamilton.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney Airport Shuttle & Maxi Cabs is one of the largest Sydney passenger transport and bus hire services operating in Sydney, Australia and its surrounding areas. They provide reliable and safe shuttle transport services to over 600 suburbs in Sydney. Whether you need services from the airport or for any time of event like conventions, proms, weddings, casino trips and for corporate executive transport services, Sydney Airport Shuttle & Maxi Cabs is your best choice.

With this shuttle service, you are guaranteed with reliable, prompt and direct services. You can choose from their immaculately-kept and new model vehicles; plus you will be driven by friendly, professional and experienced drivers. They are noted to give quality services and satisfaction every time. They operate 24/7.