Flying is more than just a way to get around for a lot of us. It’s an experience in itself. From arriving at the airport a little early to grabbing a coffee, walking through duty-free stores, or simply watching planes take off from the window, air travel carries a certain excitement.
One of those moments is boarding the plane. Most travellers imagine that iconic walk through an aerobridge. But sometimes, instead of that seamless walk, passengers are asked to board a bus. And that’s exactly what sparked a conversation online when Instagram content creator Atharv Nangare posted a reel talking about what he calls one of the biggest “turnoffs” at airports.
Instagram Creator Sparks Debate Over Boarding Buses vs Aerobridges
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In the video, Atharv joked about how the entire vibe of flying changes the moment you see a bus waiting outside the gate. According to him, boarding a plane through an aerobridge feels like the proper flying experience. You simply walk through the tunnel and step straight into the aircraft.
However, everything seems to change all of a sudden when a bus arrives. He jokingly remarks that the bus ride gives the impression that something is wrong. Instead of walking straight into the plane, you’re standing inside a crowded bus, waiting to reach an aircraft parked somewhere on the runway. For him, it almost feels like a “ripoff,” as if you’ve paid less for the journey. The whole aesthetic of flying disappears for a few minutes.
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Aviation Enthusiasts Say It’s The Best Part
But as always, the internet had plenty to say. Soon, the comments section filled with travellers sharing their own opinions, and surprisingly, many of them actually defended the airport bus. Some people said they genuinely enjoy the ride. One commenter explained that the bus takes passengers around the apron area of the airport, where aircraft are parked and serviced. For aviation lovers, this becomes a rare chance to see different planes up close.
Another user said that for aviation enthusiasts, buses are actually better than aerobridges. Someone else even described it as a “free tarmac tour.” Then there were people who shared practical reasons for preferring the bus. A cabin crew member commented that buses can actually be convenient, especially when passengers are getting off the aircraft.
And of course, the comment section also had some funny and relatable reactions. One person joked that they don’t even get space inside the bus and have to wait for the next one. Another traveller shared what they think is the ideal situation: an aerobridge while boarding and a bus while getting off the plane.
In the end, what started as a funny observation turned into a full-blown debate among travellers. So the next time you’re waiting at the gate and a bus arrives instead of an aerobridge, you might see it in a new way.
Cover Image Courtesy: Atharva Nangare/Instagram
FAQs
Why do some travelers actually like airport buses?
Many travellers, especially aviation enthusiasts or “avgeeks,” enjoy airport buses because they offer closer views of aircraft, airline liveries, and airport ground operations.
Why do airports use buses to board passengers?
Since not every airport has enough aerobridges for all flights at the same time, buses help move passengers quickly between the terminal and the aircraft.
Are airport buses faster than aerobridge boarding?
In some cases, yes. Buses can be quicker when aircraft are parked far from the terminal or when airports are handling heavy traffic.