Landline is introducing a new ground transportation service that connects Sonoma County Airport (STS) with San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The “Straight to Gate” service begins operations on November 17 and allows eligible passengers to complete check-in, drop luggage, and clear Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening before boarding a motorcoach.
Unlike traditional airport shuttles that drop passengers outside the terminal, this service delivers travelers directly into the secure area of SFO. The coach enters the restricted zone, allowing passengers to step off and walk to their connecting gate without undergoing another security checkpoint. This model aims to simplify the travel process for residents of the North Bay who need access to SFO’s extensive flight network.
Sonoma County to SFO Logistics
The service will operate eight daily round trips between the two airports. Departures from Sonoma County start at 5:00 AM and continue through 7:45 PM. The journey typically takes just over two hours, though road traffic can impact arrival times. Adult fares start at $55 one way.
Landline recommends a minimum connection time of 45 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international departures. The company advises travelers to allow extra time for potential traffic delays, especially when connecting to long-haul flights. The booking system matches passengers with a coach based on their specific SFO departure time.
For the outbound trip from Sonoma County, the service is initially available to passengers flying on select airlines. These include United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue. Travelers must have an eligible same-day flight on one of these carriers. The return journey is more flexible, open to passengers arriving at SFO on any airline. However, those returning to Sonoma must collect their checked luggage at baggage claim before boarding the coach at designated pickup points in Terminals 1, 2, 3, and the International Terminal.
Amenities and Operational Details
The motorcoaches are equipped with reclining leather seats, extra legroom, free Starlink Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an onboard restroom. The vehicles are wheelchair accessible. While these amenities improve comfort, the primary operational distinction is the integration of airport processes into the ground transport phase.
Passengers must pay for the Landline fare separately from their airline ticket. Standard airline baggage policies and fees still apply. Children aged 15 and younger ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Landline notes that the bus transfer is arranged through their platform, so passengers should review specific booking conditions rather than assuming the coach is treated as an airline-operated flight for all purposes.
This service expands a business model Landline has been developing across North America. The company previously launched a remote-terminal operation in Framingham, Massachusetts, which connects passengers with Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). The goal is to move parts of the airport experience closer to where travelers live, reducing the need for private car trips and long drives to major hubs.
Landline has identified Monterey Regional and Stockton Metropolitan airports as potential candidates for similar SFO connections. These routes remain unconfirmed. The Sonoma service will test whether travelers value an integrated ground connection enough to make it a practical extension of the airline network.
Source: Simple Flying
