Per-mile operating costs for a 40-foot or larger coach increased 34% since 1999 to $1.90, according to the American Bus Association’s annual survey. At the same time, the amount that operators charge per mile for charters and tours increased about 13% since 1999 to $2.51. Despite that, average annual revenue per coach for companies with less than 10 coaches was up 22%, reaching about $130,000 in 2001. Companies with 40 or more coaches averaged $200,000 per coach, a 43% increase over 1999’s average. The average per hour charge for charters and tours increased from $60.19 in 1999 to $63.07 in 2001. Only 12% of those who responded charge $80 or more per hour. The 161 respondents to the survey averaged 18 coaches and 62,568 miles per coach per year for charters and tours. Five percent averaged 110,000 miles or more per year. The average number of passengers carried per coach per year increased from 36 to 40. The age of the operators’ fleets averages 9.44 years. Wages for drivers and mechanics are on the rise. Eighteen percent of the companies paid their drivers more than $10.99 per hour in 1999. This year, 44% said they pay more than $10.99. Most of the operators average 17 full-time drivers and 18 part-time drivers. Fifty-five percent of the operators paid their mechanics $15 or more per hour, compared with 20% paying that amount in 1999. Internet access is also becoming more common for motorcoach operators, with 94% having access at the office compared to 77% in 1999. Seventy-five percent of the operators have their own Website, up from 51%.
Motorcoach operating costs up 34%, says ABA survey
Per-mile operating costs for a 40-foot or larger coach increased 34% since 1999 to $1.90, according to the American Bus Association’s annual survey.
More Management

Transit Unplugged Celebrates 400 Episodes
The special episode features an exclusive interview with Mark Miller, president of Constellation Software Inc. and executive chairman of the Volaris Group, who reflects on the podcast's early vision and the importance of creating a platform where transit leaders can share ideas and learn from one another.
Read More →
NFI Group Officially Opens New Flyer All-Canadian Build Facility in Winnipeg
The CAD facility enables NFI to complete full domestic production of heavy-duty transit vehicles, including zero-emission buses, in Winnipeg for the first time in 15 years.
Read More →
APTA: Surface Transportation Funding Delivers 5:1 Economic Return, Supports 41,400 Jobs per $1B
The findings provide clear evidence that sustained Federal investment in public transit and passenger rail delivers significant returns for workers, communities, taxpayers, and the U.S. economy, APTA officials said.
Read More →
Building a National Framework for Transit Safety and Consistency
On a recent episode of METROspectives, METRO Magazine’s Executive Editor Alex Roman sat down with Ana-Maria Tomlinson, Director of Strategic & Cross-Sector Programs at the CSA Group, to explore a bold initiative aimed at addressing those challenges: the development of a National Code for Transit and Passenger Rail Systems in Canada.
Read More →
FTA Invests $100M to Strengthen Transit for 2026 World Cup
The funding will ensure communities can expand transit options to meet increased demand for services around stadiums.
Read More →
ENC Names New VP of Transit Sales
John Obert previously served as regional sales manager for ENC since joining the company in June 2025.
Read More →
New 2026 Plan Aims to Expand Transportation Access Across Virginia
Over the next four years during the Spanberger Administration, DRPT will use the plan to prioritize funding for human service transportation projects and programs that reduce barriers, expand access, and promote equitable mobility, said department officials.
Read More →
Via Launches Mayors Council to Accelerate Transit Innovation Nationwide
A new advisory group of current and former city leaders will collaborate on funding strategies, technology deployment, and best practices to modernize U.S. public transit systems.
Read More →
Latinos In Transit Wraps Inaugural Navigate Mentorship Program,
The LIT Navigate Mentorship Program was launched as a structured, low-cost opportunity for active LIT members, focused on intentional growth, workforce development, mentorship, networking, and education.
Read More →
WMATA Expands U-Pass Program
Approved as part of WMATA’s Strategic Transformation Plan, the expanded program introduces new pricing and participation options that make it easier for colleges and universities to join and for more students, such as part-time, community college, and graduate students, to benefit from accessible transportation.
Read More →
