AzoresBus bolsters team after early disruptions in São Miguel

AzoresBus has acknowledged that the first days of São Miguel’s new public transport network included delays and some cancelled journeys. The concessionaire, Vale do Ave Açores, says part of the disruption is linked to the adaptation period following the network’s launch at the beginning of September.

The new structure brings together revised timetables, vehicles, technology systems and real-time passenger information in a model that differs from the island’s previous service. The company says the transition required changes to operational procedures and to how teams work.

Driver availability was identified as one of the factors behind the early difficulties. Vale do Ave Açores reported seven employee-initiated departures and 11 sickness absences, which together represented about one fifth of its initial driver workforce.

The operator says it is recruiting additional staff and monitoring the service every day. It is also in contact with schools, parish councils and other bodies to identify needs and seek adjustments where the concession contract allows them.

For passengers, students and communities that rely on collective transport, the network’s reliability will be crucial in the coming weeks. A stable service will directly affect everyday travel across São Miguel and confidence in a network intended to expand public transport provision on the island.