According to a first quarter report, Miami-based Brightline, based in Orlando, South Florida, reported significant growth in total ridership and revenue for the first quarter 2025.
This increase is primarily due to increased demand for its long distance routes. However, traffic for short-distance commuters has decreased compared to the same period in 2024.
Between January and March 2025, the company served 793,432 passengers, up 10% from 722,708 riders in the first quarter of 2024. Long-distance riderships, including trips between Miami and Orlando, accounted for 468,283 successful applicants, reflecting an age increase of 26%. In contrast, short-distance travel within South Florida fell by 8%, with a total of 325,149 passengers.
Quarterly revenue rose to $54.6 million, up 12% compared to $48.9 million won in the same period last year. Ticket sales donated $44.7 million, but supplemental revenues (tolerated by parking, food and other add-ons) were $9.9 million, indicating year-over-year growth.
Brightline, a company owned by Fortress Investment Group, stops at Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach and operates along a 235-mile corridor.
Fare Trends and Monthly Performance
Overall riderships increased, but average fares fell slightly. In the first quarter of 2025, the average fare for long-haul trips was $74.26, down from $78.40 in the first quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, short-distance fares remained stable at $30.40 compared to the previous year’s $30.59. Overall, the average fare for all riders rose modestly to $56.28.
January 2025: 266,346 riders – Long distance: 162,500 | Short haul: 103,846 – Average fare: $52 | Earnings per passenger: $63.42 – Short distance riders have decreased from 113,560 in January 2025 in January 2025: 247,083 riders – Long distance: 145,945 | Short haul: 101,138 – Average fare: $55.59 | Revenue: $16.9 million – Long distance travel on 28% before March 2025: 280,003 riders (monthly record) – Long distance: 159,868 | Short haul: 120,165 – Revenue: $20 million | Average fare: $61
Brightline prioritizes expanding more profitable long-distance services, resulting in a decline in commuter numbers due to limited seat availability. The decision to cancel commuting passes in June 2024 also affected short-distance riderships.
