Luxury express buses to start test runs in March

Starting March next year, passengers will be able to enjoy a ride in a "luxury express bus," which is equipped with seats similar to first class airline seats, private tables and video monitors. Luxury express buses will operate on a trial basis, before up to 10 buses are put into service on two routes daily in the second half of next year.

The Land, Infrastructure and Transport Ministry said a bill entailing partial revision to guidelines on fare adjustment for transportation businesses was approved by a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

The luxury express bus will be manufactured as a vehicle with up to 21 seats, which is at least eight seats fewer than the current deluxe express bus (29 seats). Individual seats will be separated with partitions, and come with private table and a monitor, enabling passengers to enjoy comfortable travel experience. The fare for the luxury express bus will be set at a level up to 30 percent higher than that of the current deluxe express bus.

The ministry has also decided to allow operation of inter-city buses that only operate to and from industrial parks outside major cities during morning and evening rush hours beginning next year. The measure is being taken to add convenience for employees working at industrial complexes, and such bus routes can be put into service once the agreement is made.