Bus/shuttle service from Flagstaff to PHX airport

Question

Hi,

Has anyone taken the bus/shuttle from Flagstaff to Phoenix airport lately? It seems there are two companies Groome and Flix/Greyhound. Both have terrible reviews which are also posted from years ago and nothing at all recent. I will be needing a ride from Flagstaff to the airport in June so would appreciate advice from anyone who has had recent experience with either of these companies or if there are other affordable alternatives.

Thanks!

Chris

Answer

Traveling from Flagstaff to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport by bus or shuttle is a common route, and there are a few options to consider. Both Groome Transportation and FlixBus/Greyhound operate services on this route, but recent reviews are somewhat scarce, so it’s important to understand what to expect and plan ahead.

Here’s a breakdown of the main options:

Groome Transportation: Groome offers shuttle service between Flagstaff and Phoenix Airport, typically running several times per day. Vehicles are usually vans or small buses, and service includes multiple pick-up points in Flagstaff, including downtown hotels. Advantages include:

Direct route with fewer stops compared to Greyhound/Flix.
Reasonably punctual and focused on airport connections.
Ability to book online and reserve specific times.

Potential drawbacks:

Limited luggage space in vans, so check baggage policies.
Some travelers have reported minor delays, but overall it is considered reliable.

FlixBus/Greyhound: These are more traditional intercity bus services connecting Flagstaff to Phoenix. They may make multiple stops, including in smaller towns along the way. Key points:

Generally cheaper than shuttle services.
Schedules can be less frequent than Groome, so check exact departure times.
Buses are larger and have more seating and luggage space.

Potential drawbacks:

Longer travel time due to multiple stops.
Some reviews indicate delays or schedule changes; however, this can vary by date and season.

Other alternatives:

Private shuttle or shared van services: Some local companies offer pre-booked shuttle service that can pick you up directly from your hotel in Flagstaff and drop you at Phoenix Airport.
Car rental one-way: Renting a car in Flagstaff and dropping it off at Phoenix Sky Harbor is an option if you prefer flexibility and want to explore the area along the way.
Ride-sharing or taxi: Expensive for such a long route (approx. 140 miles), but possible if convenience outweighs cost.

Tips for a smooth trip:

Book your shuttle or bus in advance to secure your preferred time, especially for a June departure.
Allow extra buffer time for traffic, especially near Phoenix, to ensure you arrive before your flight.
Check baggage policies and vehicle capacity if traveling with larger bags or multiple passengers.
Consider early morning departures to minimize the risk of delays affecting your flight.

In summary, Groome Transportation is generally considered the more direct and reliable option for airport transfers, while FlixBus/Greyhound may be cheaper but slower with multiple stops. Pre-booking and allowing extra time for travel are key to a stress-free transfer from Flagstaff to Phoenix Airport.

Bus/shuttle service from Flagstaff to PHX airport

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