One-way fares start at about $15 on AirRide Ann Arbor–DTW
AirRide runs a coach bus between downtown Ann Arbor and Detroit Metro Airport, serving both McNamara and Evans terminals. It’s operated with full-size coaches, so you get under-bus luggage storage instead of juggling bags in your seat. The ride usually runs 35–50 minutes depending on traffic on I-94.
Buses pick up in Ann Arbor at the Blake Transit Center on Fourth Avenue and also stop near the University of Michigan central campus; check the current timetable for exact stop names and times. At DTW, AirRide stops at McNamara first, then continues to Evans ground transportation. The stop sequence matters if you’re cutting it close for a Delta flight out of McNamara.
Service typically starts around 4:00–5:00 a.m. and runs into the late evening, with more trips stacked around morning and late-afternoon bank times. Most schedules show at least one bus per hour in peak windows, but the gap can stretch to 90–120 minutes in the midday lull. Build at least a one-bus buffer for early international departures from McNamara.
Tickets are cheaper when bought online in advance; walk-up fares at the driver usually run a few dollars higher. Kids, seniors, and some university affiliates often get discounted pricing, so it’s worth checking current fare tables if you’re traveling with family. You can show a mobile ticket on your phone instead of printing.
Coaches have standard forward-facing seats, overhead reading lights, and basic climate control; this is not a luxury sleeper setup. On-board restrooms are common on these routes, but treat them as backup, not your main plan for a long stop-and-go stretch on I-94. Wi‑Fi and power outlets vary by coach and may not be reliable enough for a full video call.
At DTW, follow signs for "Ground Transportation" and "Charter/Bus"; the AirRide stop shares curb space with other regional buses and shuttles. At McNamara, the pickup is at the Ground Transportation Center on the lower level; at Evans, it’s near the rideshare and regional bus area. Plan 10 extra minutes for the walk from the far end of each terminal.
Practical tip: For morning flights out of McNamara, target an AirRide that gets you to DTW at least 2.5 hours before departure; winter weather on I-94 can easily add 20–30 minutes to the schedule.