Rick Swanson’s connection to the bus industry runs deep. His grandfather, Lloyd H. Swanson, laid the foundation in 1962 by establishing D&F Transit Inc., a company that operated line-service routes across Western New York in collaboration with Greyhound. Rick’s father, Jack Swanson, began his career as a line-run driver, eventually working alongside Lloyd before taking the reins himself.
Under Jack’s leadership, D&F Transit grew into a robust operation with over 20 coaches, focusing on tours and charters. However, economic challenges, including high interest rates and the loss of a major contract, led the family to sell the business to a local competitor.
But the Swanson legacy didn’t end there. In 1985, Rick Swanson launched D&F Travel Inc., determined to rebuild and carry forward the family’s passion for transportation. Now, 40 years later, Rick finds himself in a familiar role — mentoring the next generation as his son, RJ, steps into a leadership position.
“This business is in the blood,” says Rick, founder and president of D&F Travel Inc. “I started working for my dad as a teenager. Now, my son RJ is taking on more leadership, just like I did at his age.”
A Legacy of Growth and Service
Headquartered in Amherst, New York, D&F Travel has evolved into a full-service transportation provider with a fleet of 14 motorcoaches, 20 (19-A) certified drivers, and a reputation for safety and reliability. The company serves clients across the U.S. and Canada, offering charter services and group tours.
Rick’s journey began modestly. He started D&F as a broker, collaborating with transportation companies in New York City and beyond. By the early 1990s, he secured a loan to purchase his first motorcoach. “We built one bus at a time,” Rick recalls.
His father, Jack, joined the business, bringing his expertise in senior group tours. Later, Rick’s sister, Elizabeth McCulloch, came on board, learning the intricacies of tour planning from their father. Today, Elizabeth serves as vice president, overseeing D&F’s tour operations and crafting custom travel experiences to iconic destinations like Yellowstone, Glacier, and the Grand Canyon.
“She learned the tour business from our dad and has really run with it,” Rick says.
In a full-circle moment, Rick’s son, RJ, joined the company a decade ago, stepping into an executive role at the same age Rick was when he founded D&F Travel.
“He’s more patient than I am and great with technology,” Rick says. “It’s good to see him stepping in. I still enjoy coming in every day, but I don’t handle as much of the day-to-day anymore.”
Marking 40 Years with New Milestones
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, D&F Travel is expanding its fleet with two state-of-the-art 2025 MCI J-4500 coaches. These vehicles come equipped with modern amenities, including restrooms, USB ports, electrical outlets, and entertainment systems.
The company also maintains a “satisfactory” safety rating from the U.S. Department of Transportation and serves as a trusted transportation partner for college athletic teams, senior groups, and international tour operators.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, D&F is introducing a passenger loyalty program, hosting special commemorative trips, and partnering with FeedMore WNY to collect non-perishable food donations at its Amherst office.
A Team Effort and Industry Support
Rick credits much of D&F’s success to the strong relationships he’s built over the years. “We wouldn’t have made it this far without a lot of good people,” he says. “Drivers, office staff, mechanics — it takes a team. And I’ve been lucky to have family right there beside me.”
He also acknowledges the role of the United Motorcoach Association in supporting the industry, particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“They’ve always been very informative,” Rick says. “During the pandemic, they did a lot to advocate for our industry.”
Four decades after purchasing his first motorcoach, Rick remains grateful for the journey. “This business has always been about people, family, employees, and the community. That’s what keeps us going.”
For more information, visit dfbuses.com or contact [email protected].
Image & Source: Bus and Motorcoach News
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