The CEO Story: How Airport Shuttle of Phoenix Became Arizona’s #1 Choice
Every trusted company starts with a vision—but how often do you get to meet the person behind that vision? In this exclusive article, we pull back the curtain on the compelling story of how Airport Shuttle of Phoenix evolved from a single vehicle operated by one determined founder into a statewide transportation network used by thousands each month. Whether you're curious about how we prioritize customer service or why travelers continuously choose our private airport rides, these insights from our CEO will make it clear why Airport Shuttle of Phoenix is Arizona’s most respected name in airport travel.
### A Mission Born From Frustration
Michael Herrera, the founder and CEO of Airport Shuttle of Phoenix, didn’t set out to create a transportation business—he just wanted to catch a flight on time. After a missed pick-up by a rideshare driver left him racing to the airport and missing a crucial meeting, he realized Arizona needed something better. He didn’t just envision a better way to travel—he built it.
> “That one experience changed everything for me. No one should have to gamble on getting to the airport.”
### From One Van to a Statewide Network
Airport Shuttle of Phoenix started with Michael driving passengers himself in a single van. He would cover long distances daily, including round-trips from Flagstaff to Sky Harbor and back to Tucson in a single afternoon. Word-of-mouth grew fast.
As the calls came in and demand skyrocketed, Michael began hiring new drivers—not just people with clean records, but those who also had a hospitality-first mindset.
> “It wasn’t just about moving people. It was about delivering peace of mind.”
### People Over Profits: A Core Philosophy
From day one, Michael built a flat-rate model with no surprises. No surge pricing. No shared rides. Just safe, private, reliable transportation across Arizona.
This structure has allowed the company to serve people in all walks of life:
- Elderly passengers traveling for medical visits
- College students returning home from Northern Arizona University
- Business travelers needing airport pickups at 4:30 a.m.
- Families vacationing from rural towns with limited access to transport
By focusing on consistent pricing and dependable scheduling, Michael laid the groundwork for a business focused on customer trust—not maximized profit.
### Customer Stories That Define the Brand
Here are a few standout experiences from long-time customers:
**Jennifer S. from Surprise, AZ**:
*“I was stressed out planning a three-generation family trip. Airport Shuttle of Phoenix not only showed up early but helped us with four suitcases and a stroller. The driver even had bottled water on hand.”*
**Carlos R. in Casa Grande:**
*“Nobody wanted to come pick me up at 2:00 a.m. for a red-eye to Dallas. Then I found this service. It was prompt, polite, and worth every penny.”*
**Erin M., Nurse in Chandler:**
*“During the pandemic, Michael’s team helped transport hospital staff to and from the airport when other options were too risky. I felt safe, cared for, and appreciated.”*
### Adapting Through Challenge: The Pandemic Pivot
During COVID-19, while many transportation services halted completely or reduced hours, Airport Shuttle of Phoenix doubled down on safety and availability.
Implementation included:
- Hospital-grade vehicle disinfecting
- Mandatory masks
- One-party-only rides (no stranger sharing)
- Waived cancellation fees for COVID-related changes
- Emergency transport for essential workers when other options were unavailable
> “We saw ourselves not just as a business—but as a lifeline. That meant showing up when others didn’t.”
### Expanding Without Compromising Values
Today, Airport Shuttle of Phoenix services over 40 cities, including:
- Prescott
- Sedona
- Goodyear
- Anthem
- Apache Junction
- Chandler
- Surprise
- Show Low
- Florence
The company has grown its fleet to include luxury sedans, SUVs, and ADA-compatible vans while maintaining personalized service and low response times. Despite the size, Michael remains involved in staff onboarding, route planning, and even answering customer calls when needed.
### Leadership Style: Boutique Operation with Big Impact
One thing that separates Michael from many CEOs? He still personally trains every driver and reads customer feedback every week.
Internal values at Airport Shuttle of Phoenix include:
- Timeliness as a promise, not a suggestion
- Honest, upfront pricing
- Clear, professional communication
- Making every rider feel like our only customer
Employees aren’t just drivers—they’re travel professionals who represent the brand’s values from pickup to drop-off.
### Why More Travelers Choose Airport Shuttle of Phoenix
Here’s what riders love most about the service:
- **Private Rides Only**: Never share your ride, vehicle, or timeline with strangers.
- **Flat Rates**: Know your cost upfront, no matter your destination.
- **24/7 Availability**: We’ll take you to the airport—even at 3 a.m.
- **Local Knowledge**: Drivers know rural routes and city shortcuts.
- **Unbeatable Coverage**: Most Arizona shuttle companies won’t serve more rural towns—Michael’s team is built for it.
### Community Commitment Beyond Transportation
Michael and Airport Shuttle of Phoenix give back to the state they serve through:
- Discounted rates for veterans and seniors
- Sponsored rides for cancer patients visiting major hospitals
- Annual donations to local school programs
- Holiday food drive coordination using company vehicles
This service isn’t just in Arizona—it’s for Arizona.
Experience the airport shuttle company built with real people in mind. Ride with Airport Shuttle of Phoenix and feel the peace of mind that thousands of Arizonans already trust.
Call (480) 710-3441 or reserve your private ride online today—it only takes a minute.
🚐 Reliable. Private. On time. Always.
Michael Herrera set out to create something that didn’t exist—a reliable, private, all-Arizona airport shuttle company focused on transparency and care. Today, his leadership has built more than a transportation service—it’s built a trusted brand travelers lean on again and again.
Looking for more ways Airport Shuttle of Phoenix supports your travel journey? Check out these guides and success stories:
- [Is a Flat Rate Shuttle Right for You? Compare the Costs](/flat-rate-vs-rideshare-costs)
- [10 AZ Towns We Service That Others Ignore](/arizona-shuttle-service-coverage)
- [How Early Should You Leave for Sky Harbor? Full Traveler’s Timeline](/sky-harbor-arrival-planning)